malapropos
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌmæl.əˈprəʊ.pəʊ/
KK: /mæləˈprōpōs/
adjective
Definition
Not suitable or appropriate for a particular situation; something that feels out of place.
Example
His comments during the meeting were malapropos and made everyone uncomfortable.
Conversation
Did you notice how his joke was a bit malapropos during the meeting?
Yeah, it felt really out of place, especially with the serious topic we were discussing.
I think he didn't realize the timing was just wrong for that kind of humor.
Definitely! It's surprising how some jokes can be so malapropos in the wrong context.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
improper
unseemly
inappropriate
Antonyms
appropriate
fitting
suitable
adverb
Definition
In a way that is not suitable or timely for a particular situation.
Example
His comments were made malapropos during the serious discussion.
Conversation
Did you hear what he said during the meeting?
Yeah, it was a bit malapropos for the occasion.
I thought so too; he really needs to read the room better.
Root Explanation
Malapropos → It is formed from "mal-" (meaning bad or ill) and "à propos" (meaning to the purpose or appropriate). The word "malapropos" means something that is inappropriate or ill-timed, indicating a bad fit for the situation.
Memory Tip
Think of 'mal-' meaning bad and 'à propos' meaning appropriate — this helps you remember that malapropos refers to something that is not appropriate.
Visually Confused Words
apropos