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

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.

Commerzbank CEO Bettina Orlopp has previously been vocal in her efforts to sway shareholders against accepting a bid, calling the approach vague and inappropriate.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

The Gates spokesperson said he didn’t have “an inappropriate relationship with any employee of TerraPower.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 1, 2026

A Department for Communities spokesperson said: "As legal proceedings are ongoing it would be inappropriate for the department to comment."

From BBC • May 31, 2026

“Safety is a cornerstone of our business and we have zero tolerance for inappropriate and unsafe behavior.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2026

It feels both natural and totally inappropriate to joke.

From "Internment" by Samira Ahmed

Vocabulary lists containing inappropriate

Fish in a Tree

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Nothing But the Truth

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Game Changer

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