Meaning & Definition of word "Inept"

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    Inept

    /ɪˈnɛpt/

    adjective:

    • 1. having or showing no skill; clumsy.
      • Example: His inept handling of the situation only made things worse.
    • 2. unpleasantly awkward or clumsy; incompetent.
      • Example: The inept joke fell flat at the serious meeting.
    • 3. lacking in judgment or sense; foolish.
      • Example: Her inept comments during the debate lost her many supporters.
    • 4. not suitable or fitting; inappropriate.
      • Example: It was an inept remark to make at such a sensitive moment.

    Etymology

    From Latin ineptus, meaning 'unfit, unsuitable'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    inept at:

    lacking skill or ability in a specific area.

    ineptitude:

    the quality of being inept; lack of skill or ability.

    inept comment:

    a remark that shows a lack of sensitivity or appropriateness.

    Related Words

    clumsy:

    lacking grace in movement.

    incompetent:

    not having the necessary skills or ability.

    awkward:

    causing or feeling embarrassment.

    Slang Meanings of inept

    Meaning: totally unskilled.

    Example Sentence: He's so inept at sports, he can't even throw a ball.

    Meaning: a memorable failure.

    Example Sentence: That presentation was an inept disaster.