indecent 🔊
Meaning of indecent
Not conforming to generally accepted standards of morality or propriety; offensive or inappropriate.
Key Difference
While 'indecent' broadly refers to something offensive or inappropriate, its synonyms may vary in intensity, context, or cultural sensitivity.
Example of indecent
- The comedian's indecent jokes caused outrage among the audience.
- Wearing shorts to a formal wedding might be considered indecent in some cultures.
Synonyms
obscene 🔊
Meaning of obscene
Offensive or disgusting by accepted standards of morality and decency.
Key Difference
'Obscene' is stronger than 'indecent' and often implies vulgarity or lewdness.
Example of obscene
- The film was banned for its obscene content.
- He was fined for making obscene gestures in public.
lewd 🔊
Meaning of lewd
Crude and offensive in a sexual way.
Key Difference
'Lewd' specifically refers to sexual indecency, whereas 'indecent' can be broader.
Example of lewd
- The artist faced criticism for his lewd paintings.
- She was uncomfortable with his lewd comments.
vulgar 🔊
Meaning of vulgar
Lacking sophistication or good taste; coarse.
Key Difference
'Vulgar' can refer to crudeness in behavior or language, not necessarily immoral.
Example of vulgar
- His vulgar language offended the guests.
- The tabloid published vulgar headlines just for attention.
improper 🔊
Meaning of improper
Not in accordance with accepted rules or standards.
Key Difference
'Improper' is milder and can refer to breaches of etiquette, not just morality.
Example of improper
- It would be improper to discuss politics at the dinner table.
- The teacher reprimanded the student for improper attire.
unseemly 🔊
Meaning of unseemly
Not proper or appropriate for the time or place.
Key Difference
'Unseemly' emphasizes inappropriateness in social situations.
Example of unseemly
- His unseemly behavior at the funeral shocked everyone.
- Celebrating loudly during a solemn event is unseemly.
indelicate 🔊
Meaning of indelicate
Lacking sensitivity or tact; slightly indecent.
Key Difference
'Indelicate' is softer and often refers to social awkwardness rather than outright offensiveness.
Example of indelicate
- Her indelicate remarks about his weight embarrassed him.
- Asking about someone's salary is considered indelicate.
risqué 🔊
Meaning of risqué
Slightly indecent or liable to shock, especially in a sexual context.
Key Difference
'Risqué' is playful or suggestive, whereas 'indecent' is more outright offensive.
Example of risqué
- The actress wore a risqué dress to the awards ceremony.
- His risqué humor was appreciated only by a few.
coarse 🔊
Meaning of coarse
Rude or offensive in speech or behavior.
Key Difference
'Coarse' refers to roughness in manner, not necessarily immorality.
Example of coarse
- His coarse language made the meeting uncomfortable.
- The novel was criticized for its coarse depiction of relationships.
offensive 🔊
Meaning of offensive
Causing someone to feel resentful, upset, or annoyed.
Key Difference
'Offensive' is broader and can apply to anything upsetting, not just moral breaches.
Example of offensive
- The advertisement was deemed offensive for its stereotypes.
- His comments were offensive to many in the audience.
Conclusion
- 'Indecent' is a strong term for actions or content that violate moral or societal norms.
- 'Obscene' should be used when referring to something shockingly vulgar or lewd.
- 'Lewd' is best when describing sexually inappropriate behavior or remarks.
- 'Vulgar' works for crude or tasteless actions, not necessarily immoral ones.
- 'Improper' is suitable for minor breaches of etiquette or decorum.
- 'Unseemly' applies to behavior that is inappropriate for a given situation.
- 'Indelicate' is ideal for tactless or slightly offensive remarks.
- 'Risqué' fits playful or mildly suggestive content.
- 'Coarse' describes rough or rude behavior without moral judgment.
- 'Offensive' is a general term for anything that causes displeasure or resentment.