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V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


inept

adjective

Definition: 1. characterized by a lack of perceptiveness, judgment, or finesse; 2. generally incompetent; 3. unsuitable or out of place

Synonyms: incompetent, foolish, ineffective, clumsy, awkward, unfit, inappropriate

Antonyms: competent, adroit, effective, graceful, adept

Tips: Inept often refers to skill or ability in general, as well as to specific acts or occasions. A milder synonym is inapt--"not apt." The related noun ineptitude refers to a person’s lack of skill. Inept is often used as a more sophisticated way of saying incompetent, as in: "He is totally inept at his job." Inept is also used to describe someone who is awkward, as in: "He is socially inept (awkward)."

Usage Examples:

No one was sure why he was still employed there, since he was totally inept at record-keeping and several other key job duties. (incompetent)

When it comes to soccer, I have to admit that I'm pretty much inept. (clumsy, ineffective, unfit)

Due to the inept handling of the account, the client decided to look for a new ad agency. (incompetent, clumsy)

He tried to act mature and sophisticated, but his general ineptitude gave him away as a recent graduate. (lack of skill, incompetence) noun


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