inappropriate

adjective

in·​ap·​pro·​pri·​ate ˌi-nə-ˈprō-prē-ət 

: not appropriate : unsuitable

inappropriate behavior

The movie's subject matter is inappropriate for small children.

inappropriately adverb

dressed inappropriately

inappropriateness noun

the inappropriateness of his comments

Synonyms of inappropriate

• unsuitable
• improper
• incorrect
• wrong
• unhappy
• unfit
• irrelevant

Examples of inappropriate in a Sentence

We won't tolerate such inappropriate behavior.

Her informal manner seemed wholly inappropriate to the occasion.

Recent Examples on the Web

There are certain genres that seem inappropriate to play during cold weather. — Hua Hsu, New Yorker, 28 June 2026

Live streams and other unfiltered media can expose kids to risky or inappropriate content, so adult guidance is key. — Kara Nesvig, Parents, 28 June 2026

The service Upscale and informal—anything else would feel inappropriate here. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 July 2026

Lula has argued the designation is inappropriate because the groups seek profit rather than political change. — ABC News, 3 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1804, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for inappropriate

• appropriate

Kids Definition

inappropriate

adjective

in·​ap·​pro·​pri·​ate ˌin-ə-ˈprō-prē-ət 

: not appropriate : unsuitable

inappropriate behavior

inappropriately adverb

inappropriateness noun

Medical Definition

inappropriate

adjective

in·​ap·​pro·​pri·​ate ˌin-ə-ˈprō-prē-ət 

: abnormal

inappropriate urinary sodium excretion

—K. G. Barry & J. P. Malloy