Meaning & use
inoffensive or unoffensive
Last updated
Meaning
phrase
a choice between two adjectives meaning 'not causing offense'; 'inoffensive' is the usual form.
Grammar: Used when asking about correct usage; the standard adjective is 'inoffensive'.
Patterns
- inoffensive or unoffensive?
- is it inoffensive or unoffensive?
Should I write 'inoffensive' or 'unoffensive' in my essay?
Many learners wonder whether to say 'inoffensive' or 'unoffensive'; the common word is 'inoffensive'.
Her remarks were inoffensive, so nobody was upset.
Common combinations
- inoffensive remark
- He made an inoffensive remark about the weather.
- inoffensive language
- The teacher asked us to use inoffensive language in class.
- completely inoffensive
- The joke was completely inoffensive and made everyone smile.
Synonyms and how they differ
- harmless
- Focuses on not causing damage or hurt, while 'inoffensive' focuses on not upsetting people.
- mild
- Describes something not strong or severe; 'inoffensive' is about not giving offense.
Opposites
Word family
Commonly confused: inoffensive or unoffensive or unoffensive?
inoffensive or unoffensive vs unoffensive
'Unoffensive' is sometimes used but is very rare; 'inoffensive' is the standard word. Use 'inoffensive' to sound natural.
Practice
Which word is the standard adjective meaning 'not causing offense'?
Choose one answer.
'Inoffensive' is the standard word. 'Unoffensive' is very rare and sounds unnatural; 'offenseless' and 'nonoffensive' are not used in this way.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “inoffensive or unoffensive”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.