Definition

Not suitable or appropriate for a particular situation; out of place or not in harmony with something else.

Example

His casual attire seemed incongruous at the formal event.

Conversation

Did you notice how his outfit looked really incongruous at the formal event?

Yeah, I thought it was funny how he showed up in shorts!

Exactly! It just felt so out of place among all the suits and dresses.

Totally! It made the whole thing more memorable, though.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Incongruous → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "congruere" (meaning to agree or to fit together). The word describes something that does not fit or is not in agreement with its surroundings or context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' fitting together — 'in-' means not, and 'congruere' means to agree or fit. This helps you remember that incongruous refers to something that is out of place.

Visually Confused Words