unseemly for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unseemly for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe behavior or actions that are inappropriate or not proper in a given context. Example: "His loud laughter during the serious meeting was unseemly for the occasion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Lifestyle

Sports

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Is it unseemly for him to be financially successful?

The Guardian - Film

It was particularly unseemly for an artist to be so punctual".

The New Yorker

It is unseemly for a school district to sell its space for the pittance it receives.

The New York Times

It would be unseemly for the different yoga bodies to obsess about market share.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Besides, he said, it would be unseemly for him to complain.

The New York Times

Why? Was it unseemly for a man to stare down a man?

The New York Times - Arts

It's also a reason why it's unseemly for self-interested critics to beat their breast in pride over negativity.

The New Yorker

But it is not only unseemly for wealthy Europeans to be looking for alms from China, it is bad policy.

The New York Times

Both Davis and Collins said his average would probably remain unseemly for the rest of the season.

The New York Times - Sports

It is the unspoken sense that it is unseemly for those so materially blessed and genetically gifted to want more.

The New York Times

It's not unseemly for a girl to imagine herself as a chemist, a primeminister, or possibly both.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "unseemly for", consider the audience and context to ensure that the level of formality aligns with expectations. It's often used in journalistic and academic writing to critique actions or behaviors.

Common error

Avoid using "unseemly for" in very casual or informal conversations. Simpler terms like "inappropriate" or "not right" may be more suitable for everyday speech.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unseemly for" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, indicating that something is inappropriate or not fitting for a specific context or entity. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in diverse situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

6%

Lifestyle

4%

Less common in

Sports

4%

Arts

4%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unseemly for" is a commonly used phrase to express that something is inappropriate or unsuitable in a particular context. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, and its prevalence in news media and encyclopedias indicates its suitability for formal and objective communication. While grammatically sound, it’s crucial to consider the audience and context to maintain an appropriate level of formality. Alternatives like "inappropriate for" or "unbecoming of" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inappropriate for

Focuses directly on the lack of suitability or fitting nature.

unbecoming of

Highlights how the action or behavior detracts from someone's character or reputation.

not proper for

Emphasizes the violation of established norms or standards.

out of place for

Stresses the lack of harmony or compatibility with the surroundings or situation.

in poor taste for

Points out the insensitivity or offensiveness of the action or behavior.

not fitting for

Underscores the mismatch between the action and the expected standards or decorum.

inappropriate to

Highlights the lack of suitability or fitting nature.

undignified for

Emphasizes the loss of respect or honor associated with the action.

not respectable for

Stresses the violation of moral or social standards.

ill-suited to

Focuses on the lack of aptitude or appropriateness for a specific role or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "unseemly for" in a sentence?

The phrase "unseemly for" is used to describe something that is inappropriate or not suitable in a particular context. For example: "It is "unseemly for" a politician to accept lavish gifts from lobbyists".

What are some alternatives to "unseemly for"?

Alternatives include "inappropriate for", "unbecoming of", or "not proper for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "unseemly for" formal or informal?

"Unseemly for" leans towards the formal side. It's more commonly found in news articles, academic papers, and professional settings rather than casual conversation.

What does "unseemly for" imply about the action being described?

It implies that the action violates standards of decorum, appropriateness, or ethical behavior. It suggests a sense of something being out of place or distasteful within a given context.