Impertinence: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is being rude by overstepping social boundaries or questioning authority without respect.

• His impertinence in challenging the professor's knowledge shocked everyone in the lecture hall.
• The employee's impertinence during the meeting was not appreciated by the manager.

Refers to behavior that is impolite or shows bad manners; it is usually straightforward and commonly used in everyday situations.

• His rudeness at the dinner table embarrassed everyone.
• Ignoring someone when they greet you is an act of rudeness.

Describes behavior that is openly rude or defiant, usually involving insulting language or demeanor.

• His insolence towards his boss led to his immediate dismissal.
• Such insolence! How dare she talk to her elders that way?

Used when someone shows a lack of respect towards another person or authority, often straightforward and can be used in both mild and severe situations.

• The student's disrespect towards his teacher resulted in detention.
• Talking back to your parents shows a lot of disrespect.

Describes a bold action that can be either positive or negative, often implying a certain level of courage or bravery; however, it can also be seen as disrespectful.

• She had the audacity to speak up against the company's unfair policies.
• I can't believe he had the audacity to ask for a raise after being late so many times.

Used to describe behavior that is rude or showing a lack of respect, especially towards someone in authority.

• His impertinence during the meeting upset everyone.
• She was shocked by the child's impertinence.

Used to describe something that is not related to the current topic or context and therefore unnecessary or out of place.

• The teacher pointed out the irrelevance of his comment in the discussion.
• Many of the points mentioned in the meeting were of complete irrelevance to the project's goals.

Used to describe something that is not suitable or proper in a particular situation. It can apply to actions, words, or attire.

• His inappropriateness in dressing for the interview did not go unnoticed.
• The inappropriateness of her comments made everyone uncomfortable.

Used to describe behavior that is not correct or appropriate in a social setting. It often refers to actions that go against accepted norms and can be considered unethical or immoral.

• The senator was accused of financial impropriety.
• There was a sense of impropriety in her mannerisms at the formal dinner.

Used to describe a lack of consideration for the feelings of others, often causing hurt or offense unintentionally.

• His insensitivity to her struggles was surprising.
• The insensitivity shown by the manager hurt many employees.