unbecoming

USAGE SUMMARY

'unbecoming' is a word found in written English.
You can use 'unbecoming' to describe behavior, clothing, or language that is not appropriate or fitting in a particular situation. For example, you could say "His loud and boisterous behavior was unbecoming at the funeral."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He posed for photographs outside a home which the police have identified as a crack house with three people, two of whom were later gunned down in a gang-related attack.None of this is a crime, but it is conduct unbecoming the mayor of Toronto and is damaging to its reputation.

The Economist

Someone who spent their formative years in Massachusetts, say, may always hanker for Samuel Adams, a local beer.In this section A Mao in every pocket Speak less softly, carry a stick Trial of strength Busily going nowhere The big guys' lament An exit unbecoming Tucking in The Marmite effect Correction: Ireland ReprintsThe new study finds a clever way to test this idea.

The Economist

Pride plays a role, too it is unbecoming for a potential superpower to have outsourced vital economic functions.

The Economist

This has been corrected online.In this section A Mao in every pocket Speak less softly, carry a stick Trial of strength Busily going nowhere The big guys' lament An exit unbecoming Tucking in The Marmite effect Correction: Ireland Reprints Related items Ireland's public finances: Bank ruptureSep 9th 2010.

The Economist

Mr Profumo is likely to get plenty of job offers outside Italy.In this section A Mao in every pocket Speak less softly, carry a stick Trial of strength Busily going nowhere The big guys' lament An exit unbecoming Tucking in The Marmite effect Correction: Ireland ReprintsUniCredit was transformed under his watch with the acquisition of HVB, a German firm, in 2005.

The Economist

Others see hyprocrisy, and a prickly nationalism unbecoming to a modern democracy.

The Economist

Rather than praise the ADB for thinking to help people in what China claims to be its territory, he describes the help as thoroughly "unbecoming".

The Economist

Mr Warner, who shares an advertising consultant with Mr McGreevey, has fired back with ads first "correcting" Mr Earley's charge and then accusing him of conduct unbecoming a candidate trying to separate the parties when events should bring them together.Like Mr McGreevey, Mr Warner has sought to look as bipartisan as possible.

The Economist

The close relationship that the merger underscores between the Bank of Italy and Banca di Roma is unbecoming.

The Economist

America has recently brushed aside some good international agreements (on nuclear testing, for example, a world criminal court, land mines), as well as dismissing some bad ones (the Kyoto convention on global warming) with an insouciance unbecoming to the world's biggest producer of greenhouse gases.

The Economist

Weber was also suspended for six months in 2000 for "conduct unbecoming a professional" during a PBA Tour event.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing actions as "unbecoming", consider the specific standards or expectations that are being violated. Be precise in explaining why the action is inappropriate in the given context.

Common error

Avoid using "unbecoming" in casual conversation or informal writing where simpler alternatives like "inappropriate" or "not right" would be more fitting. The word carries a formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The word "unbecoming" functions primarily as an adjective. It is used to describe something that is not suitable or appropriate, often in relation to a particular role, position, or context. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it typically describes behavior, clothing, or language.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Academic

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unbecoming" is an adjective used to describe something inappropriate or unsuitable, often in relation to social expectations or professional standards. Ludwig AI confirms its utility in describing actions, clothing, or language. It is most frequently found in News & Media and tends to have a neutral to formal register. When writing, remember to use it to convey disapproval of something not suitable, and avoid using it in informal contexts. Consider synonyms like "inappropriate" or "unseemly" to ensure the most fitting tone. By paying attention to context, formality, and associated implications, you can use the word "unbecoming" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inappropriate

Focuses on the lack of suitability for a particular situation or context.

unseemly

Emphasizes the violation of accepted standards of taste or behavior.

indecorous

Highlights a lack of good taste or politeness.

improper

Indicates a failure to conform to established rules or standards.

unbefitting

Stresses the lack of suitability for a particular person or role.

in bad taste

Highlights the offensiveness or lack of consideration involved.

not fitting

Simple and direct way to express that something does not match the situation.

out of place

Suggests that something is not harmonious or appropriate in a given setting.

not suitable

Indicates a lack of appropriateness for a specific purpose or occasion.

unacceptable

Emphasizes that something does not align with the principles.

FAQs

How to use "unbecoming" in a sentence?

You can use "unbecoming" to describe behavior, clothing, or language that is not appropriate or fitting in a particular situation. For example, "His loud behavior was "inappropriate" at the solemn event".

What can I say instead of "unbecoming"?

You can use alternatives like "inappropriate", "unseemly", or "improper" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "unbecoming" or "becoming"?

"Unbecoming" means not flattering or appropriate, while "becoming" means attractive or suitable. They are antonyms and used in opposite contexts. The choice depends on the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "unbecoming" and "inappropriate"?

"Unbecoming" often suggests a violation of social norms or expectations of a role or position, while "inappropriate" is a broader term indicating a lack of suitability for any reason.