Definition
Not in harmony or keeping with the surroundings or other aspects of something.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Adjective
Synonyms
Incompatible, discordant, unsuitable, inappropriate
Antonyms
Harmonious, compatible, suitable, appropriate
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | incongruousness, incongruities, incongruousnesses, incongruity |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | incongruous |
| Adverb | incongruously |
Example Sentences
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The sight of a clown at a funeral was incongruous and inappropriate.
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The modern sculpture looked incongruous in the historical museum.
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The loud rock music was incongruous with the solemn atmosphere of the church.
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The use of casual language in a formal business meeting was incongruous and unprofessional.
Usage
The word “incongruous” is derived from the Latin word “incongruus,” which means “inappropriate” or “unsuitable.” It is an adjective that is used to describe something that does not fit in with its surroundings or is out of place. This could be an object, idea, or action that does not belong in a particular setting.
The word “incongruous” is often used to point out something that is out of place, inappropriate, or odd in a particular context. It can be used to describe situations where things do not match or are not in harmony. The word can be used to describe a wide range of things, from physical objects to abstract ideas or actions.
One variation of the word is “congruous,” which means in harmony or appropriate. The prefix “in-” means not, so adding the prefix creates the opposite meaning. Other variations of the word include “incongruously” (adverb) and “incongruousness” (noun).
In conclusion, the word “incongruous” is a useful term for describing things that don’t fit into their surroundings or are not suitable in a particular context. It can be used to point out inconsistencies or things that are out of place. Understanding the word’s meaning, usage, and variations can help you communicate more effectively and accurately.