Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˌɪnˈɒpətjuːn/

Definitions

• Occurring at an inconvenient or inappropriate time.
• Unwelcome or untimely in nature.

Usage Examples

• His inopportune arrival disrupted the meeting.
• She made an inopportune comment during the ceremony.
• The inopportune storm ruined our outdoor plans.

Etymology

The word "inopportune" comes from the Latin prefix "in-" meaning "not" and the Latin word "opportunus," meaning "suitable" or "timely." "Opportunus" derives from "opportunus," meaning "coming toward the port" or "favorable for a journey." The word "inopportune" has been used in English since the 17th century to describe actions or events that are poorly timed.

Synonyms

• Untimely
• Inappropriate
• Ill-timed
• Unwelcome
• Unfortunate

Antonyms

• Timely
• Opportune
• Well-timed
• Appropriate
• Convenient

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "inopportune" varies in different English dialects. In American English, it is commonly pronounced with a stronger emphasis on the second syllable, while British English may emphasize the first syllable more. Regional accents may also affect the vowel sounds, making the word sound slightly different across various regions.

Historical Usage

First recorded in English in the late 1600s, the word "inopportune" has been used to describe things happening at an inconvenient or inappropriate time. It has been a useful term in literature, politics, and everyday speech, often describing situations where timing plays a crucial role in outcomes.

Cultural Nuances

The word "inopportune" carries a negative connotation, implying that the timing of an event, action, or decision is not ideal. In many cultures, timing plays a significant role in social interactions and decision-making, making something described as "inopportune" often considered rude or inconsiderate.

More Information

"Inopportune" is often used to describe situations where the timing of an action or event is considered to be poorly chosen, either by accident or design. This term applies in many areas of life, from personal relationships to business decisions, and can convey the sense that something occurred at the wrong moment, causing disruption or negative consequences. It highlights the importance of timing in various aspects of life, such as social interactions, work, and communication.