infelicity

/,infi'lisiti/

Thân thiện

An infelicity in his speech made the audience uncomfortable.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • The quality or state of being inappropriate, unsuitable, or unhappy; an instance of this, especially in language or expression. It refers to something that is not apt, fitting, or well-chosen, often resulting in awkwardness or displeasure.

Usage

• General Use: Used to describe an inapt or unfortunate element, most commonly within speech, writing, or a situation.
• Context: Primarily formal or literary. It often critiques style, tone, or the suitability of words.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The infelicity of his remark during the solemn ceremony caused great offense.
  • The translator noted an infelicity in the original text that made it difficult to render accurately.
  • Her essay was strong, apart from a few minor infelicities of phrasing.

Advanced Usage

• "A happy infelicity": A rare, sometimes ironic usage describing an awkward expression that is somehow charming or effective in its unintended way.
  • The poet's infelicity with grammar created a unique and memorable rhythm.

Variants and Related Words

• Infelicitous (adj): Not appropriate or well-chosen; unfortunate.
  • It was an infelicitous moment to ask for a raise.
• Felicity (n): The opposite quality; appropriateness and pleasingness of manner or style, especially in expression.

Synonyms

• Inappropriateness
• Unsuitability
• Ineptness (in expression)
• Awkwardness
• Malapropism (a specific type of verbal infelicity)

Antonyms

• Felicity
• Appropriateness
• Aptness
• Suitability

Idioms and Phrases

• "An infelicity of expression": A standard phrase highlighting the core meaning of the word.
  • The diplomat was careful to avoid any infelicity of expression in the sensitive negotiations.

Học thuật

Noun

1. inappropriate and unpleasing manner or style (especially manner or style of expression)