Indecorous: meaning, definitions and examples

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indecorous

[ɪnˈdɛk(ə)rəs ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

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

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.

Originates from the Latin word 'indecor' which means 'not becoming' or 'not fitting'.
The prefix 'in-' means 'not', while 'decorous' comes from 'decorum', referring to proper behavior.
Appeared in English literature around the late 16th century, where it was often used to describe social propriety.

In many cultures, the rules of behavior at gatherings are strict, making indecorous behavior particularly noteworthy.
Social media has increased the visibility of indecorous acts, often leading to online backlash or 'cancel culture'.
Events like weddings or formal dinners heighten the importance of decorum, making any indecorous conduct more memorable.

Indecorous actions can be linked to a lack of social awareness or the ability to read social cues.
People may act indecorously when they feel insecure or out of their comfort zones, using humor or eccentricity as a shield.
Such behavior can lead to social ostracization, as communities often value conformity to social norms.

In classic literature, characters displaying indecorous behavior often serve as comedic relief or as a foil to more decorous characters.
Authors like Jane Austen and Charles Dickens used indecorous characters to critique societal norms and expectations.
Modern novels and plays incorporate indecorous antics to reflect on social commentary regarding current cultural values.

Reality television often highlights indecorous behavior, contributing to the genre's popularity and viewer engagement.
The term is frequently discussed in the context of celebrity culture, where high-profile figures may face scrutiny for their indecorous acts.
Comedians often use indecorous situations in their routines, playing off the absurdity of breaking social norms for humor.

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