it is unbecoming

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is unbecoming" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is considered inappropriate or unattractive. For example, "His behavior at the party was unbecoming; he made a scene in front of all of our friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

General Communication

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

It is "unbecoming" to do so right after the cataclysm in Colorado, Mr. Scarborough said.

The New York Times

"It is unbecoming our nation to treat a loyal veteran, a patriot [in this way].

The Guardian

Perhaps it is unbecoming a Hall of Famer to appear to slight Curry's amazing skills and truly unbelievable performance this year.

Huffington Post

Headscarved girls are welcome here, in a society where they are often told it is unbecoming to run at all.

The Guardian - Sport

As Jeykll points out, no one likes to be fat: "It is unbecoming, fatiguing and impairs efficiency".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Even if this is just a strategy to divert attention, it is unbecoming of the leaders of a rule-of-law state and a disservice to their oaths.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

She had given the appearance of taking sides, and for a journalist it was unbecoming.

The New York Times - Arts

The manner of her leaving became her, even though it was unbecoming.

The Times

It's unbecoming".

Huffington Post

I thought it was unbecoming.

HuffPost

It's unbecoming, Bill".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is unbecoming" to express disapproval of behavior that detracts from someone's character or position. For greater impact, follow it with a specific explanation of why the action is inappropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "it is unbecoming" in very casual or informal situations; simpler language may be more appropriate and natural. Reserve it for more formal or serious discussions where the nuance of the term is appreciated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is unbecoming" serves as a judgmental statement, often used to express disapproval or criticism of someone's behavior. Ludwig examples demonstrate its application in evaluating actions against standards of conduct or propriety. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is unbecoming" is a phrase used to express disapproval of behavior that is considered inappropriate or undignified. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and usable in written English. While versatile, its tone is best suited for neutral to formal contexts like news, media, and professional environments. When considering alternative phrasing, you might opt for options like it is inappropriate or it is unseemly to capture similar sentiments with slight variations in formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is inappropriate

Replaces "unbecoming" with a more direct term for not suitable or proper.

it is unsuitable

Simply states that something does not align well with the situation or person.

it is not appropriate

A common and versatile way to express that something is not suitable.

it is unseemly

Uses a synonym that also implies impropriety, but perhaps with a slightly different connotation focusing on decorum.

it is unbefitting

A more formal synonym for unbecoming, suggesting something is not in accordance with one's status or character.

it is not fitting

Indicates a lack of suitability, often in a formal or moral sense.

it is indecorous

Emphasizes a violation of good taste or etiquette.

it is in poor taste

Focuses on the lack of sensitivity or judgment displayed.

it is undignified

Highlights the loss of dignity associated with the action or behavior.

it is discreditable

Highlights that the action or behavior brings discredit or dishonor.

FAQs

How can I use "it is unbecoming" in a sentence?

Use "it is unbecoming" to express that something is not appropriate or fitting for a particular person, role, or situation. For example, "It is unbecoming for a leader to engage in personal attacks".

What phrases have a similar meaning to "it is unbecoming"?

You can use alternatives like "it is inappropriate", "it is unseemly", or "it is not fitting" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "it is unbecoming"?

The phrase "it is unbecoming" is suitable for formal contexts where you wish to express that certain behavior is not in line with accepted standards of decorum, professionalism, or moral conduct.

Is "it is unbecoming" a formal or informal expression?

"It is unbecoming" is generally considered a formal expression. In more casual settings, phrases like "it is inappropriate" or "it is out of line" might be more suitable.