What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inapt
Example
His inapt remarks during the meeting caused confusion among the team. [inapt: adjective]
Example
She was inapt at playing the piano, despite years of practice. [inapt: adjective]
inept
Example
The new employee was inept at handling customer complaints. [inept: adjective]
Example
He felt inept at fixing the car engine, so he called a mechanic. [inept: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inept is more commonly used than inapt in everyday language. Inept is a more versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts, while inapt is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between inapt and inept?
Both inapt and inept are formal words that are typically used in written or academic contexts. However, inept is more commonly used in everyday language and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.