an inappropriate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an inappropriate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not suitable or proper in a given context. Example: "His comments during the meeting were deemed an inappropriate response to the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It is an inappropriate question," he said.

The New York Times

"Scandal" does not seem an inappropriate term.

Independent

"I made a comment — an inappropriate comment.

The New York Times - Sports

"That was an inappropriate question.

The Guardian

"It's not an inappropriate treatment".

The New York Times - Health

IT WAS an inappropriate place for an inappropriate ceremony.

The Economist

It's simply an inappropriate habitat for them.

The New York Times

I'm evangelising in an inappropriate place.

The Guardian

"That's an inappropriate thing to do.

The Guardian

Devise an inappropriate children's-book title.

The New Yorker

It's perhaps not such an inappropriate association.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "an inappropriate", ensure the context clearly defines what standards or expectations are being violated. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "an inappropriate" without clearly specifying why something is inappropriate. Vague statements can weaken your argument. Instead, provide details and context to support your claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an inappropriate" primarily functions as a pre-modifying adjective phrase, qualifying a noun. It describes something that does not align with established norms, expectations, or standards. Ludwig examples showcase this function across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an inappropriate" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something unsuitable for a particular context. Ludwig examples show its wide usage across news, science, and academic writing. The term conveys disapproval or a mismatch with expectations. While "inappropriate" is considered neutral in tone, it can be adapted for professional communications by adding specific details of why something is inappropriate. Alternatives include "an unsuitable" or "an improper", depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unsuitable

Replaces "inappropriate" with a synonym that emphasizes lack of fitness for a purpose or situation.

an improper

Uses a more formal synonym, highlighting a deviation from accepted standards or rules.

an unfit

Suggests that something does not meet the necessary qualifications or conditions.

an unseemly

Indicates that something is not appropriate and may even be offensive.

an ill-advised

Highlights that a choice or action was poorly considered and likely to have negative consequences.

an uncalled-for

Emphasizes that a remark or action was unnecessary and unwelcome.

an out-of-place

Indicates that something is not in harmony or alignment with its surroundings or context.

a misguided

Focuses on the flawed reasoning or judgment behind a decision or action.

a tactless

Highlights a lack of sensitivity or consideration in one's words or actions.

a regrettable

Emphasizes that something is unfortunate and likely to cause disappointment or sorrow.

FAQs

How can I use "an inappropriate" in a sentence?

You can use "an inappropriate" to describe something that is not suitable or proper for a particular situation. For example: "His joke was considered "an inappropriate" response to the tragedy."

What are some alternatives to "an inappropriate"?

Alternatives include "an unsuitable", "an improper", or "an unfit" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "inappropriate" or "not appropriate"?

"Inappropriate" is generally more concise and direct. "Not appropriate" can be used for emphasis or when a softer tone is preferred.

What's the difference between "an inappropriate" and "an offensive" comment?

"An inappropriate" comment may be unsuitable or out of place, while "an offensive" comment is likely to cause hurt feelings or anger. An offensive comment is often "an inappropriate" one, but not all inappropriate comments are necessarily offensive.