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Incongruity - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Incongruity refers to a lack of harmony or consistency, where elements seem out of place or contradictory. It is often used to highlight absurdity or unexpected contrasts in situations, ideas, or appearances.

incongruity

/ˌɪnkənˈɡruːəti/ /ɪnˈkɒŋɡruːɪti/

Definition:

Lack of harmony or consistency; something that does not fit its context.

Synonyms:

Inconsistency, discrepancy, mismatch, absurdity

Part of Speech:

Noun

Antonyms:

Harmony, consistency

Common Collocations:

Striking incongruity, obvious incongruity, cultural incongruity, humorous incongruity

Derivatives:

Incongruous, incongruously

Usage Tips:

Use "incongruity" to describe something that seems out of place or illogical in a given situation.

Common Phrases:

Comic incongruity, jarring incongruity, glaring incongruity

Etymology:

From Latin *incongruus* ("unsuitable"), combining *in-* ("not") + *congruus* ("agreeing").

Examples:

  • 1. The incongruity between his words and actions confused everyone.
  • 2. Her bright pink hat was an incongruity at the formal event.
  • 3. The film’s tone shifted with jarring incongruity.
  • 4. He noticed the incongruity in her story immediately.

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