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Showing results for inappropriate. Search instead for inappropriat.
Definitions

inappropriate

[in-uh-proh-pree-it] / ˌɪn əˈproʊ pri ɪt /
ADJECTIVE
not proper, unsuitable
Synonyms
STRONGEST
disproportionate improper incorrect irrelevant tasteless unseemly unsuitable wrong
WEAK
bad form foot-in-mouth garbage ill-fitted ill-suited ill-timed inapplicable inapropos incongruous inconsonant indecorous inept left-field malapropos off out of line out of place unbecoming unbefitting undue unfit unfitting unmeet unseasonable untimely way-off wrong number
Antonyms
STRONGEST
appropriate correct decent fitting good moral proper right suitable
WEAK
OK

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A spokesman for Rep. Eric Swalwell, a leading Democratic candidate for California governor, on Tuesday denounced online claims that the congressman had inappropriate relationships with young congressional staff members.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

Government inspections of nursing homes “found alarming instances of inappropriate use of antipsychotic drugs and revealed vulnerabilities in care that have implications for the wider nursing home population,” the HHS inspector general’s office reports.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 7, 2026

"Understanding that larger circuit could help answer a simple question of why someone with an anxiety disorder might exhibit inappropriate fear responses to something that isn't actually dangerous," Halladay said.

From Science Daily • Apr. 4, 2026

It’s just a downer, an inappropriate introduction of ugly real-world truths.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

It was inappropriate, in my opinion, to consume the candy Mr. Pirzada gave me in a casual manner.

From "Interpreter of Maladies" by Jhumpa Lahiri