incongruous (C1)

adjective

Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkɒŋ.ɡru.əs/

Definition

Lacking harmony or compatibility with the surrounding environment or context.

Examples

• The modern glass office building looked incongruous next to the ancient stone cathedral.

• His casual joke felt incongruous during such a solemn and serious memorial service.

• The bright pink paint was incongruous with the muted, earthy tones of the rest of the house.

How to Use incongruous

incongruous with (prepositional phrase)

not in agreement or harmony with something else — "The new policy was incongruous with the company's long-standing values."

Synonyms of incongruous

Words with a similar meaning to incongruous:

• odd
• out of place
• inappropriate
• discordant

Antonyms of incongruous

Words with the opposite meaning to incongruous:

• harmonious
• compatible

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