behørig

Behørig is a Danish adjective meaning proper, fitting, or befitting, and also used to denote something due or due respect. It describes conformity to the norms, standards, or etiquette expected in a given situation. The term can refer to conduct, clothing, procedures, or statements that are appropriate for the context. In everyday language it is relatively formal and can sound old-fashioned, but it remains common in official or procedural texts and in discussions about propriety and decorum. The related adverb is behørigt, used to indicate that an action is performed in a proper manner.

Usage and nuance

Behørig is often applied to behavior (behørig opførsel), dress (behørigt påklædt eller behørigt tøjvalg), or adherence to protocol (behørigt overholdt protokollen). It conveys that something meets expectations or is suitable to the situation, without implying moral judgment. In modern everyday speech, alternatives like passende or ordentlig may be more common, while behørig remains common in formal writing or legal language.

Etymology and cognates

The word has cognates in other Scandinavian languages, such as Swedish behörig and Norwegian behørig, with related meanings tied to propriety, competence, or authorization. In Danish, the sense of propriety can extend to both personal conduct and the suitability of objects or actions. While its core meaning remains stable, the term tends to appear more in formal contexts today.