Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Not appropriate or suitable for a particular person, situation, or standard of conduct: Describes something that does not look right, fit well, or is considered improper.
   • Not attractive or flattering: Used especially for clothing or appearance that does not suit a person.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:
  • The committee found his angry outburst unbecoming of a company director. (His behavior was not suitable for his professional role.)
  • She felt the bright pink dress was unbecoming on her. (The dress was not flattering to her appearance.)
  • Such gossip is unbecoming in a place of worship. (This type of talk is improper for this setting.)

Advanced Usage

• "unbecoming to/for/of someone/something": A common structure to specify what or who the behavior or attribute is unsuitable for.
  • Conduct unbecoming of an officer will not be tolerated.
  • His casual attitude was unbecoming to the formality of the occasion.

Variants and Related Words

• Unbecomingly (adverb): In an unbecoming manner.
  • He was dressed unbecomingly for the interview.
• Unbecomingness (noun): The quality of being unbecoming (less common).

Synonyms

• Improper: Not in accordance with accepted rules or standards.
• Unseemly: Not in keeping with established standards of taste or good form.
• Indecorous: Failing to conform to good taste or propriety.
• Unfitting: Not appropriate or suitable.

Antonyms

• Becoming: Suitable, appropriate, or attractive.
• Proper: Correct according to social or moral rules.
• Seemly: Conforming to accepted notions of propriety or good taste.

Notes on Meaning

The word unbecoming often carries a connotation of violating social or professional expectations, especially regarding dignity and decorum. It is more formal and judgmental than simpler words like "unsuitable."

Adjective

1. not in keeping with accepted standards of what is right or proper in polite society
   • was buried with indecent haste
   • indecorous behavior
   • language unbecoming to a lady
   • unseemly to use profanity
   • moved to curb their untoward ribaldry