# incongruous

/ˌɪŋˈkɔŋɹuəs/ (US) · /ɪnkˈɒnɡɹuːəs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/incongruous
Updated: 2026-06-22

## Definition

not matching or fitting with what is around it. You use this to describe something that feels out of place or strange in its environment.

For teachers: not in harmony or keeping with the surroundings or other respects; inconsistent or inharmonious. Often used to describe a mismatch between two concepts or physical objects.

## Examples

- The bright red car looked incongruous in the quiet white neighborhood.
- The modern glass skyscraper created an incongruous sight against the backdrop of the ancient stone cathedral.
- The speaker's formal, academic tone was incongruous with the casual, slang-filled environment of the local coffee shop where the lecture was held.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.