ineptly

adverb

Definition of ineptlynext
as in poorly

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ineptly The collapse of the Constitution’s balance of powers between three branches of government got us into an unneeded war conducted ineptly. — Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, 15 Mar. 2026 Dancing the Poznan really ineptly, mind you, but dancing nonetheless. — Chris Willman, Variety, 8 Sep. 2025 Somehow this ineptly plotted affair lured Keke Palmer into its lair and her comedy chops all but gets handcuffed by an illogical, unfunny screenplay. — Randy Myers, Mercury News, 15 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ineptly
  1. poorly
  2. incompetently
  3. inefficiently
Adverb
  • But University of Pennsylvania classics scholar Emily Wilson, who published her own translation of Homer's epic in 2017, says Nolan's script is poorly written and lacking in emotional depth and character development.
    — Dave Davies, NPR, 29 July 2026
  • The soil is just as dense, heavy, and poorly drained as ever.
    — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 29 July 2026
Definition of poorly
Adverb
  • As was mentioned in your editorial, the Broward school district has been incompetently managed, wasteful and corrupt for years.
    — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 10 Jan. 2026
  • The information the city provided to win passage of a ballot measure in 2022 allowing this fee was incompetently inaccurate.
    — U T Readers, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Sep. 2025
Definition of incompetently
Adverb
  • This polymer absorbs light inefficiently and breaks down quickly under continuous use.
    — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 9 July 2026
  • One problem that comes to mind with a fridge using two large access doors is the potential to bleed cold air and run inefficiently given the extra set of seams.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 6 July 2026
Definition of inefficiently

Browse Nearby Words

ineptitude
ineptly
ineptness
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Cite this Entry

“Ineptly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ineptly. Accessed 30 Jul. 2026.

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