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

Also, this group of friends has been coping with death using approximately 40% love, 20% alcohol and 40% wildly inappropriate humor, so taking this unfinished review bike back through the scene of the crime seemed entirely on brand. — Kevin Fanady, New Atlas, 6 Nov. 2026

Knouse alleged it was coerced and that Sabatini created an inappropriate workplace dynamic. — Leigh Egan, FOXNews.com, 6 Nov. 2026

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer resigned amid allegations of creating a hostile work environment, drinking on the job, having an inappropriate relationship with staff, and more. — Matt Fleming, Oc Register, 6 Nov. 2026

The character is not above asking inappropriate questions like how much an expensive shirt costs, signaling a sort of vulgar fixation on money. — David Fear, Rolling Stone, 4 Nov. 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