inappropriate
UK: ˌɪnəˈprəʊpriət | US: ˌɪnəˈproʊpriət
adj. not suitable or proper for a particular situation or purpose
adj. lacking good judgment or social acceptability
The word "inappropriate" combines the Latin-derived prefix "in-" (meaning "not") with "appropriate," which comes from the Latin "appropriatus" (past participle of "appropriare," meaning "to make one's own"). The root "appropriate" itself breaks down further into "ad-" (toward) + "proprius" (one's own). Over time, "inappropriate" evolved to signify something that is not fitting or proper, reflecting a negation of suitability. This logical construction highlights how Latin prefixes and roots were systematically combined in English to create nuanced meanings.
Wearing jeans to a formal event is considered inappropriate.
The teacher reprimanded the student for making inappropriate comments.
His laughter at the funeral was highly inappropriate.
The report contained inappropriate language for a professional setting.
She felt the question was inappropriate and refused to answer.