Incongruous
Not in harmony with the surroundings; inappropriate or out of place.
adjectiveIncongruous
Not in harmony with the surroundings; inappropriate or out of place.
adjectiveImagine This
Two pathways in a serene forest, one made of colorful pebbles and the other of smooth stones, intertwining but differing in texture and color, symbolizing the concept of incongruity as they lead to a harmonious clearing filled with vibrant flowers.
Sounds Like
in-KON-GROO-uhs
Looks Like
Not congruent (not the same)
Remember This
Remember this: incongruous is the opposite of congruous; it describes things that clash with their context or expectations.
Other Forms
Connect With
congruent, congruous, harmonious, discordant, out of place, incompatible
Note
Use incongruous to describe mismatched appearances, ideas, or actions. Do not confuse with similar-sounding words like inconsequential or inconvenient.
Study Deeper
- The modern sculpture looked incongruous among the classical statues in the museum.
- Wearing a neon hoodie to a formal dinner would be incongruous and distracting.
From Latin incongruus 'not fitting together,' from in- 'not' + congruus 'fitting together' (from con- 'together' + congruus).
IN + CONGRUOUS = NOT FITTING; picture a formal tuxedo at a tropical beach—totally incongruous.
Next Word
Continue in alphabetical order.
Try a Random Word
Pick any word below to jump in.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Abstruse
adjectiveDifficult to understand; obscure or highly complex.
Accidental
adjectiveHappening by chance or without deliberate planning; not intended. In music, it is also a noun for a symbol that temporarily alters a pitch.
Acerbic
adjectiveSharp or biting in tone or taste; caustic or mordant in manner.
Acquiescent
adjectiveReady to agree or approve without protest; compliant.
Adamant
adjectiveRigid in opinion or purpose; not willing to change one's mind or position.
Adept
adjectiveHaving or showing a high level of skill or proficiency; very capable.