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

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.

Most people see a UFC event on the White House lawn as a profoundly inappropriate way to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary, and I wish I could agree.

From Slate • Jun. 14, 2026

“It’s very disappointing and inappropriate that this video was not produced in discovery,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026

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

Initially, the trust only looked into inappropriate access of the deceased victims' records, rather than all of the victims.

From BBC • May 27, 2026

Suddenly, I understood everything: the arguments with Mamá, his inappropriate riddle for La Sirena the last time we had played Lotería as a family, the disconnected phones, his unexplained disappearance, it all made sense now.

From "Summer of the Mariposas" by Guadalupe García McCall

Vocabulary lists containing inappropriate

Fish in a Tree

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Nothing But the Truth

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Game Changer

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!