inept
An inept person or thing isn't very good at what they do, often because they lack skill or common sense.
When people say that something or someone is inept, they usually mean it's not doing its job well. This can be a bit harsh, but sometimes it's just a matter of fact - like when a politician makes a series of silly mistakes in office and their critics call them inept. It might also refer to an idea or plan that doesn't quite work out as hoped.
How common is "inept"?
Word inept is considered rare in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.
Definitions
adjective
Not able to do something; not proficient; displaying incompetence.
Example: As a waiter, he was inept, so they put him in the kitchen.
aptadeptskillful
Real examples of "inept" in context
