What does indecorously mean?
Indecorously is an adverb meaning in a manner that is improper, unseemly, or contrary to accepted standards of conduct. It is commonly used to describe behavior that is embarrassing, rude, or inappropriate for a particular setting, such as speaking loudly during a formal ceremony or wearing clothing considered unsuitable for a solemn occasion. The word carries a strongly negative judgment and is more formal than everyday alternatives such as badly, rudely, or inappropriately, although it can sometimes sound deliberately exaggerated or humorous. Its adjective form, indecorous, is also encountered in literary and legal contexts. Understanding indecorously requires recognizing its connection with decorum: decorum refers to proper behavior and respect for social conventions, while doing something indecorously means violating those conventions.
adverbIn a manner that violates decorum, propriety, or socially acceptable standards of behavior.
- In a way that is improper, indecent, or contrary to decorum.
"The guests behaved indecorously, shouting across one another during the formal dinner."
"She replied indecorously to the speaker and was asked to leave the ceremony."
"The statue was positioned indecorously, blocking the entrance to the hall."
Indecorously is the word for behaving as if social conventions have been placed firmly on the back burner.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does indecorously come from?
Indecorously was formed in English by adding the adverbial suffix -ly to indecorous. The adjective indecorous comes through Latin from roots meaning not and decorus, or proper and dignified, and is related to decorum, meaning propriety or dignity of behavior.
Related word forms
How indecorously is actually used
This word has a formal, somewhat literary tone and is noticeably more emphatic than simply saying that something is improper. It is used especially for behavior, dress, speech, or arrangements that breach accepted standards of propriety.
Easily confused with indecorously
Indecorously describes behavior that violates propriety, whereas decorously describes behavior that conforms to it.