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.

These safeguards are designed to prevent me from engaging in harmful or inappropriate behavior.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

In the days since the accusation became public, other women have come forward with allegations of misconduct, including claims of unwanted touching and inappropriate behavior, according to CNN and other outlets.

From Salon • Apr. 11, 2026

The Times has not independently corroborated reports of inappropriate behavior.

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

In it, she’d said that our mascot, the Gunner, was inappropriate for a school environment.

From "Here to Stay" by Sara Farizan

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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