Which word means 'to correct behavior; obedience to rules and customs'?

• A. Propriety
• B. Prudence
• C. Placate
• D. Precipitate

Answer: (A)

Think of a word that names proper conduct in line with rules and social expectations. Propriety captures that idea—the quality of behaving in a proper, decorous way and following established rules and customs. It directly conveys obedience to norms of behavior. Prudence is about wise, careful decision-making, not conformity to rules. Placate means to soothe or pacify someone, and precipitate means to cause something to happen quickly or to act hastily. So propriety is the best fit for the sense of behaving rightly according to rules and customs.