What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inapropos
Example
His joke was inapropos and offended many people. [inapropos: adjective]
Example
Bringing up your personal problems during a business meeting is inapropos. [inapropos: adjective]
Example
Her comment was completely inapropos to the conversation we were having. [inapropos: adjective]
irrelevant
Example
Your comment is irrelevant to the topic we are discussing. [irrelevant: adjective]
Example
The information you provided is irrelevant to the case. [irrelevant: adjective]
Example
The details you mentioned are irrelevant to the main point of the story. [irrelevant: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Irrelevant is more commonly used than inapropos in everyday language. Irrelevant is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while inapropos is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between inapropos and irrelevant?
Inapropos is typically associated with a formal tone and is often used in professional or academic settings. Irrelevant is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.