unbecoming — not flattering or attractive; inappropriate or unsuitable for someone's position or character
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: not flattering or attractive; inappropriate or unsuitable for someone's position or character
Pronunciation (IPA): /ʌnbɪˈkʌmɪŋ/
Example Sentences
- The CEO's casual flip-flops were unbecoming at the board meeting.
- It's unbecoming of a teacher to gossip about students.
- Her unbecoming jealousy ruined the wedding reception.
unbecoming
ADJECTIVE[/ʌnbɪˈkʌmɪŋ/]
not flattering or attractive; inappropriate or unsuitable for someone's position or character
Inappropriate behavior for the situation
Unbecoming attire gets no welcome, but proper dress becomes welcoming!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word combines the prefix 'un-' (meaning 'not') with 'becoming', the present participle of the verb 'become'. The verb 'become' carries the sense of 'to be suitable or fitting for', allowing the negated form to express the opposite meaning.
Breakdown
un- (not) + becoming (suitable, fitting). The term 'becoming' derives from the verb 'become', which means 'to suit or be appropriate for', combined with the negating prefix 'un-' to form the adjective meaning 'not suitable or inappropriate'.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The CEO's casual flip-flops were unbecoming at the board meeting.”
“It's unbecoming of a teacher to gossip about students.”
“Her unbecoming jealousy ruined the wedding reception.”
“The royal prince found burping at dinner quite unbecoming.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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