distasteful

Distasteful is an adjective used to describe something that provokes distaste—a feeling of aversion, displeasure, or moral disapproval. The term can apply to sensory experiences, such as flavors or textures that are unpleasant to the palate, as well as to actions, remarks, or materials judged inappropriate, offensive, or in poor taste. Etymology: from distaste, combining dis- (opposite of) and taste (sense of liking). The noun distaste originally referred to aversion; the adjective distasteful emerged in Middle English and has remained in common use since.

Usage: In culinary contexts, distasteful foods may be described as bitter, rancid, or otherwise unpalatable. In social or political contexts, distasteful remarks or jokes are those that many people find inappropriate, disrespectful, or insensitive. Distasteful does not necessarily imply illegality or harm, but it signals a normative judgment about propriety or decency.

Nuance: The label can be subjective and culture-dependent. What is considered distasteful in one culture or era may be tolerated or celebrated in another. The term is often milder than offensive or disgusting, and is sometimes used to critique style, taste, or decorum rather than essential morality.

Related terms: tasteless, tacky, or inappropriate are near-synonyms, though each carries its own emphasis. Antonyms include palatable, tasteful, and inoffensive.