Misfits: meaning, definitions and examples

Best used when talking about someone who does not belong to a particular social group or community, often feeling excluded or isolated.

• As a new employee, he felt like an outsider in the office
• Despite living in the village for years, she was still considered an outsider

Ideal when referring to someone who has unusual or odd behaviors or ways of thinking, often in a harmless and sometimes endearing way.

• Her eccentric habit of wearing mismatched shoes caught everyone's attention
• The scientist was known for his eccentric theories

Applicable when describing someone who resists authority, control, or tradition, often in a bold and defiant way. This term can have a negative connotation depending on the context.

• She was known as a rebel in school, always challenging the rules
• The young artist was a rebel, refusing to conform to the traditional art styles

Refers to people or things that do not fit into a group or situation. Often used to describe people who feel they don't belong in a social setting.

• He always felt like a misfit in school.
• The team of misfits was determined to prove everyone wrong.

Refers to a pairing or combination of things that do not go well together. Often used in situations involving comparison or selection.

• The mismatch between their skills and the job requirements became apparent quickly.
• The colors were a total mismatch and clashed horribly.

Describes a lack of harmony or compatibility between things. Often used in more formal or literary contexts.

• The incongruity of the modern sculpture in the ancient church was striking.
• There was a notable incongruity between his cheerful demeanor and the serious content of his speech.

Describes something that is not suitable or proper in a specific situation. Often used in formal settings.

• Wearing jeans to a wedding is considered inappropriate.
• His comments during the meeting were completely inappropriate.