inopportune
Americanadjective
adjective
Usage
What does inopportune mean? Inopportune means inappropriate, unfavorable, or unsuitable for a particular situation or occasion.It can also mean coming at the wrong time. The terms untimely and poorly-timed mean the same thing.Inopportune is especially used in the phrases inopportune moment and inopportune time, meaning the moment that’s least suitable or favorable (for something to happen or be done).Inopportune is the opposite is opportune, which means appropriate, favorable, or suitable for a particular situation or occasion. It can also mean coming at the right time—timely or well-timed.Example: The audit was very inopportune—it came at the worst possible time.
Other Word Forms
- inopportunely adverb
- inopportuneness noun
- inopportunity noun
Etymology
Origin of inopportune
From the Late Latin word inopportūnus, dating back to 1525–35. See in- 3, opportune
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Tom Skiles, a 30-year resident who periodically drives his wife to the hospital, said that while he understands the plight of the homeless, it is an inopportune time to lose a guaranteed amenity.
From Los Angeles Times
It was the latest crushing blow to a franchise with a withering track record of losing key players at the most inopportune times.
From Los Angeles Times
That makes it a foregone conclusion that Jun-hee will give birth at a most inopportune moment, which she does.
From Salon
James Harden was masterful in pouring in 50 points for a Clippers team that once again has endured a slew of injuries at the most inopportune time.
From Los Angeles Times
He can create magic with the ball at his feet but he can also be out of position at inopportune moments.
From BBC
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.