infelicity
UK: ˌɪnfɪˈlɪsɪti | US: ˌɪnfəˈlɪsəti
n. 1. The state or quality of being unhappy or unfortunate.
n. 2. An instance of inappropriateness or unsuitability (e.g., in language or behavior).
infelicity = in<not> + felicity<happiness>
- in (prefix): From Latin in-, meaning "not" or "opposite of."
- felicity: From Latin felicitas (happiness, luck), derived from felix (happy).
Etymology Origin:
The word infelicity traces back to Latin roots, combining the negative prefix in- with felicity (happiness). Originally, felicity described good fortune or bliss, so infelicity logically evolved to denote misfortune or inappropriateness. Over time, it broadened to include linguistic or situational unsuitability, reflecting its Latin logic of "not-happiness."
The infelicity of his remarks made the audience uncomfortable.
She couldn’t hide the infelicity of her situation after losing the job.
The poem’s infelicity of phrasing distracted from its deeper meaning.
His infelicity in social settings often led to misunderstandings.
The infelicity of the timing ruined the otherwise perfect event.