Infelicitousness refers to the quality or state of being unfortunate, unsuitable, or inappropriate, especially in speech, action, or circumstance. It denotes a lack of tact, grace, or effectiveness that leads to awkwardness, embarrassment, or negative consequences. It describes a situation or expression that is ill-chosen, clumsy, or poorly timed, resulting in unintended offense or a failure to achieve the desired effect. infelicitousness highlights the deviation from what is considered fitting, agreeable, or successful in a given context, often stemming from poor judgment or a lack of awareness. The impact can range from mild social discomfort to significant damage to relationships or reputations. Ultimately, it signifies an unfortunate mismatch between intent and outcome.
Infelicitousness meaning with examples
- His attempt at humor during the funeral service displayed a profound infelicitousness; his off-color jokes caused widespread offense and undermined the solemnity of the occasion. The inappropriate timing and content completely misread the room, leaving many attendees deeply uncomfortable and resentful of his insensitive behavior.
- The politician's off-the-cuff remarks regarding a sensitive cultural issue were a clear example of infelicitousness. His words, lacking careful consideration, inadvertently perpetuated stereotypes and ignited a firestorm of criticism, damaging his public image and leading to calls for an apology.
- Her decision to wear a revealing outfit to a formal business meeting showcased a glaring infelicitousness; her attire was entirely unsuitable for the professional environment and undermined her credibility, creating a distraction and a display of poor judgment, which raised questions about her professionalism.
- The choice of location for the company's launch party, held in a dimly lit and poorly ventilated warehouse, displayed an infelicitousness that undermined the celebration. The venue was completely inadequate for the event, creating an unpleasant experience for guests and damaging the company's brand image.