The meaning of INAPPROPRIATE is not appropriate : unsuitable. How to use inappropriate in a sentence.

INAPPROPRIATE definition: 1. unsuitable: 2. unsuitable: 3. unsuitable, esp. for the particular time, place, or situation: . Learn more.

Definition of inappropriate adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

INAPPROPRIATE definition: not appropriate; not proper or suitable. See examples of inappropriate used in a sentence.

If you say that someone's speech or behaviour in a particular situation is inappropriate, you are criticizing it because you think it is not suitable for that situation.

Jan 20, 2026 · Adjective inappropriate (comparative more inappropriate, superlative most inappropriate) Not appropriate; not suitable for the situation, time, or place.

Inappropriate refers to something that is not suitable or proper in the circumstances. It denotes behavior, language, action, or expression that is out of place, offensive, or violates certain social norms, …

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026 in•ap•pro•pri•ate (in′ə prō′ prē it), adj. not appropriate; not proper or suitable: an inappropriate dress for the occasion.

Factsheet What does the adjective inappropriate mean? There is one meaning in OED's entry for the adjective inappropriate. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definition, usage, and quotation evidence.

The word "appropriate" means correct or proper and since the little prefix "in" turns its meaning around, something inappropriate is considered not proper or suitable.