Definition

Not skilled or competent; showing a lack of ability or judgment.

Example

His inept attempt to fix the car only made the problem worse.

Conversation

I can't believe how inept I was during that presentation yesterday.

It wasn't that bad, but I could see you were nervous.

Yeah, I really fumbled some of the key points.

We all have off days; just learn from it and move on.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inept is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "aptus" (from Latin, meaning suitable or fit). The word describes someone who is not suitable or fit for a particular task or situation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being combined with 'suitable' ('aptus') to remember that 'inept' means not suitable or clumsy.

Visually Confused Words