inappropriate

adjective

in·​ap·​pro·​pri·​ate ˌi-nə-ˈprō-prē-ət How to pronounce inappropriate (audio)
Synonyms of inappropriate
: 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

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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
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.
In addition, pharmaceutical advertising or education aimed at doctors may also increase inappropriate prescribing, probably increases the number of prescriptions written, and may increase the costs of prescriptions. — Ed Silverman, STAT, 9 Oct. 2026 Finally, the companies committed to clear pathways for complaints and reports of inappropriate behavior. — Joe Bobowicz, Vogue, 9 Oct. 2026 Kothari subsequently apologized, calling his language inappropriate and insensitive. — Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 9 Oct. 2026 Perhaps Michael Scott, the hopelessly inappropriate and often offensive lead character of the sitcom The Office, would have loved ancient Greece. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inappropriate

Word History

First Known Use

1804, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inappropriate was in 1804

Rhymes for inappropriate

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Browse Nearby Words

inapproachable
inappropriate
inapt
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inappropriate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inappropriate. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

inappropriate

adjective
in·​ap·​pro·​pri·​ate ˌin-ə-ˈprō-prē-ət How to pronounce inappropriate (audio)
: not appropriate : unsuitable
inappropriate behavior
inappropriately adverb
inappropriateness noun

Medical Definition

inappropriate

adjective
in·​ap·​pro·​pri·​ate ˌin-ə-ˈprō-prē-ət How to pronounce inappropriate (audio)
: abnormal
inappropriate urinary sodium excretion—K. G. Barry & J. P. Malloy
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