Inappropriate - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

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SKIP TO CONTENT inappropriate /ɪnəˈproʊpriət/ /ɪnəˈprʌʊpriɪt/ IPA guide

The word "appropriate" means correct or proper and since the little prefix "in" turns its meaning around, something inappropriate is considered not proper or suitable.

Nowadays, it seems, anything goes. Yet good manners and standards prevail, and some things are simply inappropriate — such as taking a toddler to a violent movie, or making jokes at someone else's expense. You wouldn't show your future father-in-law naked pictures of his daughter or wear a bathing suit to a state dinner. Those actions are simply inappropriate.

Definitions of inappropriate

adjective not suitable for a particular occasion etc “noise seems inappropriate at a time of sadness” “inappropriate shoes for a walk on the beach” “put inappropriate pressure on them” synonyms: unbefitting not befitting improper, wrong not appropriate for a purpose or occasion malapropos of an inappropriate or incorrectly applied nature improper not suitable or right or appropriate see moresee less antonyms: appropriate suitable for a particular person, place, condition, etc. befitting appropriate to grade-appropriate the quality of ability and work that is appropriate for students in a specified grade pat exactly suited to the occasion proper, right appropriate for a condition or purpose or occasion or a person's character, needs apropos of an appropriate or pertinent nature proper marked by suitability or rightness or appropriateness show more antonyms...
adjective not in keeping with what is correct or proper “completely inappropriate behavior” synonyms: incompatible, out of keeping, unfitting incongruous lacking in harmony or compatibility or appropriateness

Pronunciation US /ɪnəˈproʊpriət/ UK /ɪnəˈprʌʊpriɪt/ Cite this entry Style: MLA

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Vocabulary lists containing inappropriate

Fish in a Tree Lynda Mullaly Hunt

In this novel, a dedicated teacher and new friendships help Ally understand and come to terms with her dyslexia — and to realize that there's no shame in being different.

Nothing But the Truth Avi

Using journal entries, memos, letters, and dialogue, award-winning author Avi pokes fun at high school, politics, and the media. This satirical novel demonstrates that truth is always subjective.

Game Changer Tommy Greenwald

After a thirteen-year-old football player ends up in a coma, his family and medical team try to piece together what happened.

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