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Showing results for inappropriate. Search instead for inappropri.
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.

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

A senior naval officer was investigated last year over allegations of an inappropriate relationship with Scottish MP Joani Reid, BBC News understands.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

A scythe, Citra knew, could choose the color of his or her robe—every color except for black, for it was considered inappropriate, for their job.

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.