unbecoming
/'ʌnbi'kʌmiɳ/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- 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
- 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