Inept: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when describing someone who is particularly bad at performing a specific task, often with a sense of being unsuitable for it. It has a negative connotation.

• He is an inept manager, always making poor decisions
• She felt inept trying to fix the computer without any prior knowledge

Best used when criticizing someone's inability to do their job or tasks properly due to lack of skill or qualifications. It carries a strong negative connotation.

• The new employee is completely incompetent; he can't follow simple instructions
• An incompetent doctor can cause a lot of harm to patients

Often used for physical movements that are uncoordinated or accidents that happen due to lack of control. It can refer to actions as well as descriptive traits of a person.

• She is so clumsy, always dropping things
• The clumsy child knocked over the vase

Use when referring to situations or people that are uncomfortable, embarrassing, or lacking in social grace. It can describe both physical movements and social interactions.

• There was an awkward silence after he said something rude
• His awkward dance moves made everyone laugh

This word is used to describe someone who is clumsy or lacks skill in a particular activity. It often has a negative connotation.

• He was an inept driver, constantly swerving and missing turns.
• Her inept handling of the situation made things worse.

This word is used when something is not suitable for a particular situation, often because it is offensive or rude. It is similar to 'improper' but can be more general.

• His jokes were inappropriate for the solemn occasion.
• Wearing shorts to a business meeting is inappropriate.

Use this word when something does not fit well with a specific purpose or need. It is a general term without strong negative connotations.

• The dress was unsuitable for the cold weather.
• His qualifications were unsuitable for the job.

Use this word to describe behavior or actions that do not conform to accepted standards or rules. It carries a formal and often negative tone.

• It is improper to speak loudly in a library.
• Wearing casual clothes to a formal event is considered improper.