What does inopportune mean?
Inopportune is an adjective meaning badly timed or inconvenient. It is used for events, interruptions, requests, and other circumstances that happen when they are least useful, welcome, or appropriate. The word is more formal than expressions such as “bad timing” or “at the wrong time,” and it can suggest that a situation is not just inconvenient but badly judged. For example, a telephone call during a crucial meeting may be described as inopportune, as may an offer made when the recipient is unable to consider it properly. The related adjective opportune means suitable or favorable, while the adverb inopportunely describes something done at a bad time. Inopportune is especially useful in formal writing and in situations where the ordinary expressions sound too casual.
adjectiveHappening or done at an unsuitable or inconvenient time; badly timed.
- Happening or done at an unsuitable or inconvenient time; badly timed.
"The sudden meeting came at an inopportune moment, interrupting an important conversation."
"The power failure arrived at an inopportune moment, just as the presentation began."
"She apologised for raising the issue at such an inopportune time."
Inopportune is a polite way of saying that the timing could not have been worse.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does inopportune come from?
Inopportune comes from Latin importunus, a form related to opportunus, meaning suitable or favorable, and was formed in English with the prefix in- meaning “not.” The word opportune ultimately comes from Latin portunus, associated with portus, meaning a port or harbor, and the idea of arriving at a favorable time for sailing. The English form inopportune developed in the 17th century and has long been used for events that occur at an inconvenient or unsuitable time.
How inopportune is actually used
The word is formal and often used to describe a moment, event, interruption, or action that could not have occurred at a less inconvenient time. It can also imply that an event is not merely inconvenient but fundamentally inappropriate or badly judged.
Easily confused with inopportune
Inopportune describes something that is badly timed or inconvenient, whereas importunate describes someone who is persistent or demanding, especially in requesting help or attention.