Inappropriateness refers to standards or ethics that are typically viewed as being negative in a society, often treated as objective by moralists. [1] It differs from things that are illicit in that inappropriate behavior does not necessarily have any accompanying legal ramifications. [2] The meaning of INAPPROPRIATE is not appropriate : unsuitable. How to use inappropriate in a sentence. Adjective inappropriate (comparative more inappropriate, superlative most inappropriate) Not appropriate; not suitable for the situation, time, or place. The word appropriate means correct or proper and since the little prefix in turns its meaning around, something inappropriate is considered not proper or suitable. Define inappropriate. inappropriate synonyms, inappropriate pronunciation, inappropriate translation, English dictionary definition of inappropriate. adj. Unsuitable or improper. in′ap·pro′pri·ate·ly adv. in′ap·pro′pri·ate·ness n. American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. INAPPROPRIATE definition: 1. unsuitable: 2. unsuitable: 3. unsuitable, esp. for the particular time, place, or situation. Learn more. Inappropriate means something that is not suitable or proper in the circumstances. For example, wearing a casual t-shirt to a formal job interview is considered inappropriate because it does not match the expected level of formality. Synonyms for INAPPROPRIATE: unsuitable, improper, incorrect, wrong, unhappy, unfit, irrelevant, unfortunate; Antonyms of INAPPROPRIATE: appropriate, suitable, correct, proper, right, relevant, happy, fitting Vile or Repulsive (Informal): Describing an action or thing that is morally repulsive, abusive, or exceptionally unpleasant. Something that is inappropriate is not useful or suitable for a particular situation or purpose. The industry is inappropriate to the region's present and future needs. There is no suggestion that clients have been sold inappropriate policies.