utterly inappropriate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utterly inappropriate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is completely unsuitable or unacceptable in a given context. Example: "His comments during the meeting were utterly inappropriate and made everyone uncomfortable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Completely and utterly inappropriate was Heffernan's view.

The Guardian

This was utterly inappropriate, so aides ignored him.

The New York Times

Bicycles currently used in Africa are utterly inappropriate for transportation in these regions.

Columbia University

"Some projects that seemed clever a few weeks ago now seem utterly inappropriate," Mr. Albrecht said.

The New York Times

This is akin to what Shell is trying to do in the Arctic – it's utterly inappropriate".

The Guardian - Business

The SNP immigration spokesman, Stuart C McDonald, said the exclusion of Eritreans was "utterly inappropriate".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Actually, in any other circumstance, it would be utterly, bizarrely inappropriate – but in discussing his new TV drama, Spartacus: Blood and Sand, it's pretty much par for the course.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It was cheesy after-dinner material, vaguely inappropriate — and utterly effective.

The New York Times - Magazine

Judge Kay was emphatic in rejecting the arguments presented in two days of hearings last week, saying they were "inappropriate" and "utterly without merit".

The New York Times

However, whenever someone is so wrong, so utterly disingenuous, it's inappropriate ever to leave that on the table as if it's reality.

Huffington Post

In a surprising intervention earlier this year, the former Tory leader William Hague said cannabis laws were "inappropriate, ineffective and utterly out of date".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "utterly inappropriate", ensure the context clearly defines why the subject is unsuitable. This strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "utterly inappropriate" in casual conversation. Its formal tone can seem overly dramatic or pretentious in everyday settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utterly inappropriate" functions as an intensifier followed by an adjective, modifying and emphasizing the degree of inappropriateness. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this combination serves to strongly underscore the unsuitability of something in a given context.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

13%

Science

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utterly inappropriate" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to strongly emphasize the unsuitability or unacceptability of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news and media, academic, and scientific contexts, maintaining a neutral register suitable for various levels of formality. When writing, it's best to use this phrase when you want to strongly emphasize inappropriateness and avoid using it in very casual conversations. Consider alternatives like "completely unacceptable" or "totally unsuitable" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely unacceptable

Emphasizes the unacceptability of something, focusing on its failure to meet standards.

totally unacceptable

Similar to 'completely unacceptable' but may imply a stronger emotional reaction.

entirely unsuitable

Focuses on the lack of fitness for a particular purpose or situation.

wholly unfit

Strongly emphasizes the lack of suitability; more emphatic than 'entirely unsuitable'.

absolutely wrong

Shifts focus to the incorrectness or ethical problem associated with something.

patently wrong

Highlights the obviousness of the error or inappropriateness.

thoroughly improper

Stresses a breach of etiquette or moral standards.

categorically wrong

Underlines that it is not just wrong but wrong in every way or case.

thoroughly unsuitable

Emphasizes the degree to which something does not fit the situation.

manifestly improper

Highlights a clear and obvious inappropriateness or breach of conduct.

FAQs

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

You can use "utterly inappropriate" to describe actions, comments, or behaviors that are completely unsuitable for a given situation. For example, "His comments during the interview were "utterly inappropriate" and unprofessional".

What are some alternatives to saying "utterly inappropriate"?

Alternatives include "completely unacceptable", "totally unsuitable", or "entirely wrong", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

When is it best to use "utterly inappropriate" instead of "inappropriate"?

"Utterly inappropriate" is best used when you want to emphasize the severity or degree of inappropriateness. It suggests that something is not just unsuitable but exceptionally so.

Is there a difference between "utterly inappropriate" and "wholly inappropriate"?

While both phrases emphasize a high degree of inappropriateness, "utterly" often implies a stronger emotional reaction or moral judgment, whereas "wholly inappropriate" might focus more on the complete unsuitability of something for a particular purpose or context.