that is inappropriate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that is inappropriate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that something is not suitable or acceptable in a given context. Example: "The comments made during the meeting were unprofessional and that is inappropriate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But that wouldn't excuse conduct that is inappropriate.

The New York Times

So this is a possession that is inappropriate for poor whites.

Yale University

"We do not tolerate unlawful behavior or workplace behavior that is inappropriate," Mr. Stout said.

The New York Times

They also may approach failure in a way that is inappropriate for the context.

Harvard Business Review

Can parents prevent broadcasters from filling the airwaves with material that is inappropriate for children?

The New York Times

We would rather go without than do something that is inappropriate".

The New York Times

Nobody talks about a coach that is inappropriate with athletes; the coach quietly moves away and gets hired someplace else".

The Guardian - Sport

If advertising sometimes results in patients' asking for a drug that is inappropriate, I will say so.

The New York Times - Health

As a result of their performance of these invalid measures, ELLs can end up in a classroom that is inappropriate for their level of instruction.

Stanford University

The Fed in my view is staying incremental with a very blunt instrument, the Fed funds rate, that is inappropriate for dealing with the problems that it's facing".

The New York Times

"There is clear evidence of Iranian activities, in some cases supplying weaponry and training to the Taliban that is inappropriate," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and adjust the formality of the phrase; alternatives like "that is unacceptable" may be more suitable for formal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "that is inappropriate" in very casual conversations; opt for more relaxed alternatives like "that's not okay" or "that's out of line" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that is inappropriate" functions as a declarative statement expressing disapproval or disagreement. As confirmed by Ludwig, it correctly identifies an action, behavior, or statement as not fitting or acceptable within a given set of standards.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that is inappropriate" is a versatile expression used to denote unsuitability or unacceptability across various contexts. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. While generally maintaining a neutral to professional register, it's essential to consider the specific audience and context when choosing this phrase. News & Media and Academia are the most frequent contexts. For more casual settings, consider using less formal alternatives such as "that's not okay" or "that's out of line". Knowing when and how to use "that is inappropriate" can significantly improve the clarity and effectiveness of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that is unsuitable

Replaces "inappropriate" with a direct synonym, emphasizing the lack of suitability.

that is unacceptable

Uses a stronger term to denote something not tolerable or allowable.

that is not acceptable

A more formal version of "that is unacceptable", carrying a similar meaning.

that is improper

Indicates a violation of established rules or standards of conduct.

that is wrong

Suggests a moral or ethical violation, making it less neutral than "inappropriate".

that is unfit

Implies a lack of qualification or preparedness for a particular purpose.

that is out of line

Conveys a sense of exceeding acceptable boundaries of behavior.

this is not on

An informal, often British, way to express disapproval or unacceptability.

that's simply not on

Similar to 'this is not on' but with an intensifier, for more emphasis.

that's just not done

Emphasizes a breach of social norms or etiquette.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "that is inappropriate"?

You can use alternatives like "that is unsuitable", "that is unacceptable", or "that is improper" depending on the context.

How do I use "that is inappropriate" in a sentence?

Use "that is inappropriate" to express disapproval or disagreement with a behavior, action, or statement. For example, "His behavior at the meeting was disruptive, and that is inappropriate."

When is it best to use "that is inappropriate"?

"That is inappropriate" is suitable for professional, academic, or formal settings. For informal contexts, consider alternatives like "that's not okay" or "that's out of line".

Is "that is inappropriate" a formal or informal phrase?

"That is inappropriate" tends to be more formal than alternatives. However, the level of formality depends on the situation and audience. Always adapt your language to fit the specific context.