Unacceptable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unacceptable

[ˌʌnəkˈsɛptəbəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

inappropriate behavior

Not satisfactory or permissible; not acceptable.

Synonyms

improper, inappropriate, unjustifiable, unsatisfactory.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unacceptable	This word is used when something is deemed not to meet the required standards or is impossible to accept, often in formal contexts. The behavior of the employee was deemed unacceptable and led to his dismissal. Receiving such a low quality of service is simply unacceptable.
inappropriate	This word is often used to describe behavior, comments, or actions that are not suitable or proper in a particular context or situation, often implying a social or cultural misstep. His joke was considered highly inappropriate given the serious nature of the meeting. Showing up late for a job interview is considered inappropriate.
unsatisfactory	Used to describe something that does not meet expectations or needs, commonly in the context of performance, quality, or outcome. The performance of the machine was unsatisfactory and needed further improvement. She received an unsatisfactory grade on her project and was asked to redo it.
improper	Improper is used to describe something that is not right or suitable according to standard rules or practices. Often used in formal or semi-formal contexts. It is improper to wear casual clothes to a black-tie event. The accountant was fired for improper handling of company funds.
unjustifiable	Unjustifiable describes something that cannot be justified or defended with reason or logic, often in the context of actions or decisions. The company’s decision to cut employee benefits was seen as unjustifiable by the workers. His aggressive reaction was completely unjustifiable given the mild provocation.

Examples of usage

His behavior towards his colleagues was unacceptable.
The quality of the product was unacceptable.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

low quality

Of a low or poor standard; inadequate.

Synonyms

below standard, inferior, poor, subpar.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
unacceptable	This term is used when something meets neither the basic expectations nor standards. It often conveys strong disapproval. His behavior in the meeting was completely unacceptable. Submitting such poorly researched work is unacceptable.
poor	This word describes something that is of low quality or substandard. It is often used in casual or everyday conversations. The WiFi connection here is poor. He gave a poor presentation.
inferior	Use this word when something is of lower quality compared to others. It often has a negative connotation. The materials used in this building are inferior. Her performance was inferior to that of her peers.
subpar	This term is used to describe something that is below average or not up to an expected level. It is commonly used in professional or evaluative contexts. The restaurant's service was subpar. His recent performances have been subpar.
below standard	This phrase is used to describe something that does not meet the predetermined standards or expectations. The quality of the service was below standard. These products are below standard and should be recalled.

Examples of usage

The unacceptable level of service led to many customer complaints.
The company's unacceptable practices were exposed by the media.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Social Context

In social situations, calling behavior 'unacceptable' often sparks discussions about ethics and morals.
Various cultures have different standards of what is deemed 'unacceptable', especially regarding behavior and etiquette.

Psychology

When individuals label something as 'unacceptable', it often reflects personal values and societal norms.
The feeling of something being 'unacceptable' can trigger strong emotional responses, sometimes leading to conflict.

Pop Culture

The term often appears in media and literature to highlight characters or actions that defy social norms, such as in films about rebellion.
Songs and protests frequently use the idea of unacceptability to challenge unfair practices or discrimination.

Legal Framework

In legal contexts, behaviors or acts deemed 'unacceptable' can lead to consequences, such as lawsuits or criminal charges.
Terms like 'unacceptable risk' are also found in insurance and finance, indicating levels of risk that are considered too high to engage in.

Origin of 'unacceptable'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'acceptare', meaning 'to receive', with the prefix 'un-' added to show the opposite.
It has been in use in English since the late 17th century, evolving to express disapproval or intolerance.

The word 'unacceptable' originated from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'acceptable' meaning 'able to be accepted'. It first appeared in the 15th century in English, derived from the Latin word 'acceptabilis'. Over time, 'unacceptable' has come to be widely used in various contexts to describe something that is not satisfactory or allowed.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,495 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8492 familiarity
8493 receivers
8494 speedy
8495 unacceptable
8496 fibrous
8497 enhancing
8498 acetic
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