inappropriate

/ˌɪnəˈpɹəʊpɹi.ət/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Not appropriate; not suitable for the situation, time, or place.

Adjective

Examples

It is inappropriate to burp at a formal dinner.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Improper; adult; sexual.

AdjectiveRegister: informal

Examples

kids saying inappropriate things

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “inappropriate” mean?

Not appropriate; not suitable for the situation, time, or place.

Is “inappropriate” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.