Indecorous: meaning, definitions and examples

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indecorous

 

[ ɪnˈdɛk(ə)rəs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

formal

Not in keeping with good taste and propriety; improper or unseemly.

Synonyms

improper, indecent, unseemly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
indecorous

Used when describing behavior or actions that are not in line with social norms or accepted standards of decorum. Often used in formal or sophisticated settings.

  • Her indecorous remarks at the dinner table surprised everyone.
  • Wearing such a flashy dress to the solemn event was considered indecorous.
improper

Used for actions or behaviors that are unsuitable or incorrect according to societal rules or standards. It can be both formal and informal, and sometimes suggests a breach of etiquette or morals.

  • It is improper to speak loudly during a performance.
  • His improper handling of the funds led to an investigation.
unseemly

Used to describe behaviors, actions, or appearances that are inappropriate or not fitting for a certain situation, often with a moral or ethical implication. The term carries a negative connotation and is often used in formal language.

  • Laughing loudly at the funeral was highly unseemly.
  • Such unseemly behavior could damage his reputation.
indecent

Often used when describing actions or behavior that are morally offensive or inappropriate, sometimes with a sexual undertone. This word has a strong negative connotation.

  • The actress was criticized for her indecent dress at the awards ceremony.
  • He was arrested for making indecent comments to a minor.

Examples of usage

  • It would be indecorous to wear jeans to a formal event.
  • His indecorous behavior at the party shocked everyone.
  • The senator's indecorous remarks caused a scandal.

Translations

Translations of the word "indecorous" in other languages:

🇵🇹 indecoroso

🇮🇳 अनुचित

🇩🇪 unanständig

🇮🇩 tidak pantas

🇺🇦 непристойний

🇵🇱 nieprzyzwoity

🇯🇵 不作法な

🇫🇷 indécent

🇪🇸 indecoroso

🇹🇷 edepsiz

🇰🇷 무례한

🇸🇦 غير لائق

🇨🇿 nevhodný

🇸🇰 nevhodný

🇨🇳 不得体的

🇸🇮 neprimeren

🇮🇸 óviðeigandi

🇰🇿 әдепсіз

🇬🇪 უცენზურო

🇦🇿 ədəbsiz

🇲🇽 indecoroso

Etymology

The word 'indecorous' originated from the Latin word 'indecorus', which means 'unbecoming'. It first appeared in the English language in the mid-17th century. The prefix 'in-' signifies 'not', so 'indecorous' literally means 'not decorous'. Over time, it has been used to describe behavior or actions that are not in accordance with accepted standards of propriety or good taste.