Synonyms of faux pas

faux pas

noun

ˈfō-ˌpä 

as in mistake

a socially improper or unsuitable act or remark

according to an oft-told story, the queen set a guest at ease about a faux pas by politely imitating it

Synonyms & Similar Words

• mistake
• blunder
• error
• indiscretion
• gaffe
• familiarity
• gaff
• solecism
• impropriety
• offense
• fumble
• miscue
• flub
• misstep
• goof
• slipup
• slip
• lapse
• misconception
• stumble
• incivility
• discourtesy
• howler
• misstatement
• muff
• oversight
• misunderstanding
• miscalculation
• boner
• misjudgment
• misapprehension
• foul-up

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• attention
• gesture
• courtesy
• formality
• form
• civility
• manners
• amenity
• pleasantry
• mores
• proprieties

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of faux pas

For most guys, turning up poolside in the same trunks as someone else isn’t that big of a deal—certainly not a faux pas on the same level as, say, the lady in your life’s arriving on the red carpet in the same gown as another woman. — Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 9 Aug. 2026

This is where a BCC error could become more than a simple privacy faux pas and move into security territory. — Davey Winder, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026

But don’t worry, this common faux pas can easily be rectified by an $8 hack. — Stephanie Osmanski, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 July 2026

Once considered a touristy fashion faux pas, belt bags have undergone a complete rebrand, becoming a practical, stylish accessory for travelers in the know. — Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 12 July 2026