Definition

In a way that is not appropriate or fitting for a particular situation.

Example

He dressed unsuitably for the formal event, wearing jeans instead of a suit.

Conversation

Did you see how she dressed for the meeting today?

Yeah, I thought it was unsuitably casual for such an occasion.

Right? I couldn't believe it, especially since it was a big client.

Exactly! It really makes a difference to dress appropriately.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unsuitably → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "suitable" (from Latin "suitabilis", meaning fitting or appropriate) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "unsuitably" means in a manner that is not fitting or appropriate.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to 'suitable' to remember that 'unsuitably' means something is done in a way that is not appropriate.

Visually Confused Words