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incongruence

noun

/ɪnˈkɒŋ gru əns/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of incongruence

A state or quality of being inconsistent, incompatible, or out of harmony with one's surroundings or expectations.
"The incongruence of her beliefs with the company’s values led to her resignation."

Detailed meaning of incongruence

It is a noun that describes a lack of congruity or agreement between different elements or aspects. Incongruence often manifests as a mismatch or discrepancy, where something does not fit logically or aesthetically within its context. This term can be applied to various domains, such as interpersonal relationships, cultural practices, artistic compositions, or scientific theories. It implies a lack of coherence, balance, or conformity, highlighting the presence of discordant or contradictory elements that disrupt unity or coherence. Incongruence can generate a sense of unease or tension, challenging our perception of the world and prompting a need for resolution or reconciliation.

Example sentences containing incongruence

1. The incongruence between his words and actions was glaring.
2. The modern furniture’s incongruence with the vintage decor created an eclectic atmosphere.
3. His statement had a subtle incongruence that raised suspicion.
4. She was puzzled by the incongruence in the data sets.
5. The fashion designer's bold incongruence of patterns became her signature style.
6. The incongruence of her casual attire at the formal event was a topic of conversation.

History and etymology of incongruence

The noun 'incongruence' has its origins in Latin and carries the prefix 'in,' meaning 'not,' combined with 'congruentia,' which is derived from 'congruens,' the present participle of 'congruere.' 'Congruere' is composed of 'con,' indicating 'together,' and 'gruere,' meaning 'to come together' or 'to agree.' Therefore, the etymology of 'incongruence' reflects the notion of something that does not come together or agree harmoniously with its surroundings or expectations. It signifies a state or quality of being inconsistent or incompatible, highlighting a lack of harmony or alignment between different elements or expectations.

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Further usage examples of incongruence

1. The team discussed the incongruence in the marketing strategies of the two products.
2. The police investigated the incongruence in the suspect's alibi.
3. The incongruence in the architecture of the neighborhood gave it a unique character.
4. He wrote an essay about the cultural incongruence he experienced as an immigrant.
5. The incongruence between the employee’s skills and job requirements became evident over time.
6. The psychologist noted the incongruence between the patient’s behavior and his self-image.
7. They found an incongruence in the historical records which opened a new line of inquiry.
8. The critics pointed out the incongruence in the movie's plot which affected its ratings.
9. The incongruence between his words and actions raised suspicion.
10. The stylistic incongruence in the room's decor was unsettling.
11. Cultural incongruence can lead to misunderstandings.
12. The incongruence of his beliefs puzzled his friends.
13. Incongruence in her behavior left everyone perplexed.
14. There was an incongruence between the data sets.
15. The incongruence between their goals hindered collaboration.
16. The incongruence in his explanation was evident to all.
17. Incongruence in the puzzle pieces made solving it difficult.
18. The incongruence of her statement was hard to ignore.
19. The incongruence in his personality made him an enigma.
20. Incongruence in their expectations led to disappointment.
21. The incongruence in their ideologies led to conflict.
22. Incongruence in the design clashed with the overall theme.
23. The incongruence between theory and practice was evident.
24. The incongruence in their values strained their relationship.
25. Incongruence in the data analysis led to a reevaluation.
26. The incongruence of his behavior with his reputation surprised many.
27. The incongruence in her story made it hard to believe.
28. Incongruence in their plans required a revision.