Meaning & Definition of Inept in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: Showing a lack of skill or ability.

  Example Sentence: His inept handling of the situation made things worse.

• Definition: Being clumsy or awkward.

  Example Sentence: Her inept attempts at dancing drew laughter from the audience.

• Definition: Not suitable or appropriate.

  Example Sentence: The inept choice of words offended the guests.

Etymology

Origin: From Latin ineptus, meaning 'unfit, unsuitable'.

Synonyms

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.

Translations

• Spanish: inepto

• French: inapte

• German: ungeeignet

• Russian: некомпетентный

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.