Unsuited: meaning, definitions and examples

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unsuited

 

[ʌnˈsutɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

inappropriate behavior

Not appropriate or suitable for a particular purpose or situation.

Synonyms

improper, inappropriate, incompatible, unfit, unsuitable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unsuited

Use this to describe someone or something that does not fit a particular role or situation.

  • She felt unsuited for the fast-paced environment of the corporate world
inappropriate

Use this when something is not suitable or fitting in a particular context or situation, often socially or professionally unacceptable.

  • Wearing jeans to a black-tie event is considered inappropriate
unsuitable

This word is used to describe someone or something that is not right or fit for a particular use or purpose.

  • That heavy coat is unsuitable for hot weather
improper

This word is best used to indicate something that is not correct according to social or moral standards, often carrying a negative connotation.

  • His improper behavior at the formal event offended many guests
unfit

Use this when someone or something is not suitable for a specific purpose or condition, often implying a lack of ability or health.

  • He was deemed unfit for military service due to his poor health
incompatible

This word is used to describe two or more things that cannot coexist or work together effectively.

  • Their personalities were too incompatible for a long-term relationship

Examples of usage

  • His unsuited behavior at the party made everyone uncomfortable.
  • Her unsuited remarks during the meeting were unprofessional.
Context #2 | Adjective

not matching

Not matching or fitting well with something else.

Synonyms

clashing, discordant, discrepant, incongruous, mismatched.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unsuited

Typically used when something or someone does not have the appropriate qualities or characteristics for a particular task or situation.

  • She is unsuited for the strenuous activity due to her health problems
mismatched

Used when two or more things that are paired do not go well together, often referring to clothing, furniture, or partners.

  • The couple looked mismatched, with their vastly different styles
clashing

Used when discussing things that conflict with each other, often related to colors, styles, or opinions.

  • The bright yellow curtains were clashing with the dark green walls
discordant

Commonly used in contexts involving sounds that are harsh or not in harmony, as well as metaphorically for things that do not go well together.

  • The band's performance was discordant and gave everyone a headache
incongruous

Appropriate when describing something that does not fit well with its surroundings or context. Can be used for objects, behaviors, or situations.

  • His cheerful attitude seemed incongruous at the somber funeral
discrepant

Used to describe conflicting data, information, or statements.

  • The witness's statement was discrepant with the evidence found at the scene

Examples of usage

  • The unsuited color of the curtains clashed with the furniture in the room.
  • Her unsuited choice of accessories did not complement her outfit.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'unsuited' comes from adding the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' to 'suited', which means 'fitting' or 'appropriate'.
  • The term 'suit' originally referred to a set of clothes that are matched for a formal occasion, reinforcing the idea of proper fit.
  • Words like 'unsuited' help express the idea of being mismatched, which has been used in language since at least the 19th century.

Psychology

  • Feeling unsuited can lead to anxiety or low self-esteem, especially when people feel out of place in social situations.
  • Cognitive dissonance occurs when one's self-perception clashes with the view of their suitability in a role, causing discomfort.
  • Research shows that individuals often overestimate their suitability for positions they are not qualified for, known as the Dunning-Kruger effect.

Social Dynamics

  • In workplace contexts, being deemed unsuited for a role can impact career progression and team dynamics.
  • Relationships may also struggle if partners feel unsuited due to differing values or lifestyles.
  • The concept of unsuitedness can foster dialogue about inclusion and respect for diverse talents and identities.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters often face challenges related to being unsuited for their situations, driving narrative tension.
  • Shows like 'The Office' play on the humor of characters feeling unsuited for their corporate roles.
  • Reality TV often highlights individuals who seem unsuited for their chosen pursuits, leading to dramatic confrontations.

Educational Settings

  • Students may feel unsuited for specific subjects, impacting their motivation and academic success.
  • Curricula often need to be adapted for diverse learners to ensure no one feels unsuited in their learning environment.
  • Inclusion strategies help educators ensure all students feel suited for participation and success, regardless of their backgrounds.

Translations

Translations of the word "unsuited" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inadequado

🇮🇳 अनुपयुक्त (Anupyukt)

🇩🇪 ungeeignet

🇮🇩 tidak sesuai

🇺🇦 непідходящий

🇵🇱 nienadający się

🇯🇵 不適当 (Futekitō)

🇫🇷 inadapté

🇪🇸 inadecuado

🇹🇷 uygunsuz

🇰🇷 부적합한 (bujeokhabhan)

🇸🇦 غير مناسب (ghayr munasib)

🇨🇿 nevhodný

🇸🇰 nevhodný

🇨🇳 不合适 (bù héshì)

🇸🇮 neprimeren

🇮🇸 óviðeigandi

🇰🇿 жарамсыз

🇬🇪 შეუსაბამო (sheusabamo)

🇦🇿 uyğun olmayan

🇲🇽 inadecuado

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,911, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.