patently inappropriate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "patently inappropriate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is clearly or obviously unsuitable or unacceptable in a given context. Example: "The comments made during the meeting were patently inappropriate and did not reflect the values of our organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But Robert Fishman, the tourism authority's chief executive, called the suit "a patently ridiculous and inappropriate interpretation" of the law.

The New York Times - Travel

"I hesitate to say the involvement of City firms in law centres is inappropriate but what was patently obvious, as a volunteer taking a black cab from my swanky Ally McBeal office just two miles down the road to the East End, was that I knew nothing of any use for the clients".

The Guardian

Some claims are either entirely self-evident or are patently untrue and have no viable evidence to support them, making them inappropriate for substantive debate.

The Washington Post

This is patently not the case at present and the consequences include poor diagnosis, inappropriate drug therapy, and neglect of concomitant symptoms such as anxiety and catastrophizing.

Current Medical Research and Opinion

We're so used to Trump saying things that are patently, outlandishly false, like claiming that Clinton doesn't have a child care program, or wildly inappropriate, like calling a US Senator "Pocahontas".

Huffington Post

Patently untrue.

The Guardian - Sport

Argentina patently.

The Guardian - Sport

Patently, that's progress.

The Economist

"That's patently obvious.

The New York Times

This is patently untrue.

The New Yorker

This was patently absurd.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "patently inappropriate", ensure the context clearly supports the strong assertion that the subject is not just inappropriate, but obviously so.

Common error

Avoid using "patently inappropriate" for situations where the inappropriateness is debatable or subjective. Save it for instances where the unsuitability is universally recognized.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "patently inappropriate" functions as an intensifier followed by an adjective. The adverb "patently" modifies the adjective "inappropriate", emphasizing the obviousness and undeniable nature of the inappropriateness. This is reflected in Ludwig's examples where it's used to describe actions, interpretations, or claims.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "patently inappropriate" is a phrase used to describe something that is obviously unsuitable or unacceptable. Ludwig AI indicates that its usage is grammatically correct. The phrase is primarily found in news and media contexts, with a more formal register. It is best used when the inappropriateness is clear and undeniable, and should be avoided in situations where it's subjective or debatable. Related phrases include "clearly unsuitable", "obviously improper", and "blatantly unacceptable".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Clearly unsuitable

Emphasizes the lack of suitability more directly.

Obviously improper

Highlights the lack of propriety or decorum.

Blatantly unacceptable

Stresses the open and flagrant nature of the unacceptability.

Plainly wrong

Focuses on the incorrectness or moral deficiency.

Undeniably unsuitable

Highlights the incontrovertible nature of the inappropriateness.

Patently unfit

Similar structure, emphasizes a lack of fitness or qualification.

Manifestly wrong

Emphasizes the obviousness and clarity of the error.

Indisputably improper

Highlights the lack of debate regarding the impropriety.

Transparently unsuitable

Emphasizes that the unsuitability is easily seen or detected.

Flagrantly improper

Highlights the shocking and outrageous nature of the impropriety.

FAQs

What does "patently inappropriate" mean?

The phrase "patently inappropriate" means something is obviously and undeniably unsuitable or unacceptable. It suggests the inappropriateness is clear and evident to anyone.

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

You can use "patently inappropriate" to describe actions, comments, or behaviors that are clearly out of line. For example, "The CEO's behavior at the party was "clearly unsuitable" and "patently inappropriate"."

What are some alternatives to "patently inappropriate"?

Alternatives include "clearly unsuitable", "obviously improper", or "blatantly unacceptable". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "patently inappropriate" formal or informal?

"Patently inappropriate" is generally considered a formal phrase. It's suitable for professional writing and speech, but may sound overly formal in casual conversation.