Meaning & Definition of word "Incongruous"
Incongruous
/ɪnˈkɒŋɡruəs/
adjective:
- 1. not in harmony or keeping with the surroundings or other aspects of something; out of place.
- Example: She wore an incongruous outfit that clashed with the formal dress code of the event.
- 2. lacking propriety; inappropriate.
- Example: His laughter during the serious meeting was incongruous and unsettling.
- 3. contradictory; disagreeing.
- Example: The incongruous nature of the comedian's sad jokes left the audience confused.
Etymology
●Latin 'incongruus', meaning 'inconsistent, unsuitable'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
incongruous behavior:
actions that seem inconsistent with the expected norms.
incongruous situation:
a circumstance that appears ill-suited to the context.
Related Words
incongruence:
the state of being incongruous.
incongruously:
in a manner that is not harmonious.
Slang Meanings of incongruous
Meaning: awkward or ill-fitting.
● Example Sentence: His attempt to fit in felt very incongruous during the serious discussion.
Meaning: out of sync.
● Example Sentence: Her upbeat attitude was incongruous with the somber setting.