proper bounds; degree; extent
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
appropriate boundary; proper limit; sense of propriety
formalRefers to the fine line of what is socially acceptable or appropriate behavior.
As an elder, he strictly adheres to propriety in speech and action.
When criticizing students, he pays close attention to propriety, pointing out mistakes without harming their self-esteem.
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This matter concerns company secrets; we must maintain proper bounds when discussing it.
noun
extent; degree; stage; point
formalRefers to a particular stage, level, or point (often undesirable or surprising) reached in a situation.
I never imagined he could be foolish to such an extent, forgetting even basic common sense.
That the situation has developed to the point of violence is truly heartbreaking.
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Their friendship is so deep that it has reached the point where they would sacrifice everything for each other.