Langimage
English

ineptly-used

|in-ept-ly-used|

C1

/ɪˈnɛptli juːzd/

(inept)

lacking skill

Base FormNounAdverb
ineptineptnessineptly
Etymology
Etymology Information

'inept' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ineptus,' where 'in-' meant 'not' and 'aptus' meant 'fitting.'

Historical Evolution

'ineptus' transformed into the French word 'inepte,' and eventually became the modern English word 'inept' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'not fitting or suitable,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'lacking skill or ability.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

used in a clumsy or awkward manner, lacking skill or proficiency.

The tool was ineptly-used, resulting in a crooked cut.

Synonyms

Antonyms

skillfully-usedadeptly-used

Last updated: 2025/07/07 13:53