Synonyms for

Incompatible

Verb / ˌɪnkʌˈmpætʌbʌl / Another word for incompatible — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

not able to exist together in harmony

Synonyms & similar words

illsorted mismated inappropriate unsuited unfitting uncongenial compatible congenial contrastive antagonistic synergistic outorkeeping discrepant clashing conflicting inconsistent discordant disagreeable unsuitable unsuited hostile antagonistic opposite contrary irreconcilable incongruous dissonant unmixable mismatched unfitting inharmonious inappropriate inconvenient

Synonyms by register

Formal

conflicting discordant irreconcilable contrary

Informal

clashing mismatched not getting along at odds

Literary

unsuited incongruous

Antonyms

compatible harmonious consistent agreeable suitable congruent concordant

Common collocations

  • incompatible with
  • incompatible systems
  • incompatible parts
  • incompatible data
  • incompatible software
  • incompatible personalities
  • fundamentally incompatible

Word family

noun incompatibility
adjective incompatible
adverb incompatibly

Usage note

Often used to describe things that cannot exist or work together, such as software or personalities. Be careful not to confuse with 'incompetent'.

Example sentences

  1. The new software was incompatible with the old computer system.
  2. The two chemicals were incompatible and caused a dangerous reaction.
  3. Their schedules were incompatible and they couldn't find a time to meet.
  4. The two friends had different ideas about what they wanted to do and were incompatible as travel companions.
  5. The company realized that their product was incompatible with the needs of their target audience.

Quotes

  • 'I think the idea of a soulmate is incompatible with democracy. It's quite a romantic idea, but democracy means that everyone can have that dream.' - Hanif Kureishi
  • 'I'm very much a person who likes to create a family unit, and likes to have kids around. I would love to have kids of my own. I think it's an amazing experience, but I'm also happy to have kids that I didn't actually have. I think I have a lot to give.' - Ellen DeGeneres
  • 'I find it hard to believe that human beings are the crowning achievement of life on earth. Something better than us has to come along.' - Doug Coupland

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