Inappropriate

Definition

Not suitable or proper in the circumstances.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɪnəˈproʊpriət/
• Respelling: in-uh-PROH-pree-uht (with "in" as in "tin," "uh" as in "sofa," "PROH" as in "pro," "pree" as in "free," and "uht" as in "sofa")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɪnəˈprəʊpriət/
• Respelling: in-uh-PROH-pree-uht (with "in" as in "tin," "uh" as in "sofa," "PROH" as in "pro," "pree" as in "free," and "uht" as in "sofa")

In both dialects, "inappropriate" places the primary stress on the third syllable, "PROH." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "in-uh-PROH-pree-uht."

Etymology

The word "inappropriate" is comprised of the prefix "in-" meaning "not," coupled with the adjective "appropriate." The term "appropriate" is borrowed from the Latin word "appropriatus," the past participle of "appropriare," which means "to make one's own," derived from "ad-" ("to") and "proprius" ("one's own").

Derivatives

• Inappropriately (adverb)
• Inappropriateness (noun)
• Inappropriate (noun - rare usage, refers to something that is not appropriate)
• Appropriateness (antonym form)
• Appropriately (antonym form)

Synonyms

• Unsuitable
• Improper
• Unfitting

Antonyms

• Suitable
• Proper
• Fitting

Usage

"Inappropriate" is commonly used to describe actions, behaviors, comments, or clothing that are not suitable for the context or situation. It often conveys a sense of social or cultural disapproval.

Related Terms

• Indecency
• Impropriety
• Unbecoming
• Discordant
• Mismatched

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Inappropriate (Unsuitable): Not suitable or proper in the circumstances.
  • Example: "His casual attire was inappropriate for the formal event."

• Inappropriate (Improper): Not in accordance with accepted standards of behavior or propriety.
  • Example: "The employee was reprimanded for making inappropriate comments during the meeting."

Note: The term "inappropriate" is most commonly used to describe actions, behavior, language, or attire that are not considered fitting or suitable within a specific context. It carries a judgmental tone and should be used carefully.