awkward
Awkward (adj) means causing or feeling embarrassment or discomfort, especially in a social situation. Example: “There was an awkward silence after his joke fell flat.”
How to use awkward
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishUncomfortable, clumsy, or hard to manage.
Word forms
more awkward comparative, awkwards plural, most awkward superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
There was an _____ silence after his joke fell flat.
Etymology
From Middle English awke, "clumsy" + -ward.
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “awkward” mean?
The word “awkward” means causing or feeling embarrassment or discomfort, especially in a social situation. In plain terms, uncomfortable, clumsy, or hard to manage.
How do you pronounce “awkward”?
“Awkward” is pronounced AWK-wuhd (/ˈɔk.wɚd/ in IPA).
How do you use “awkward” in a sentence?
Here is “awkward” used in a sentence: “There was an awkward silence after his joke fell flat.”
What part of speech is “awkward”?
“Awkward” is an adjective.
Where does the word “awkward” come from?
The word “awkward” comes from Middle English. From Middle English awke, "clumsy" + -ward.
Is “awkward” a common word?
“Awkward” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “awkward” have?
“Awkward” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: causing or feeling embarrassment or discomfort, especially in a social situation.
What is the difference between 'awkward' and 'clumsy'?
'Clumsy' usually refers to being physically ungraceful or prone to knocking things over, matching one sense of 'awkward' as lacking skill in movement. 'Awkward' has a wider range and also covers social embarrassment, as in an awkward silence, which 'clumsy' does not usually describe.
What is the difference between an 'awkward' and an 'embarrassing' situation?
An 'awkward' situation is uncomfortable, tense, or difficult to handle gracefully, and may feel strained without anyone being clearly at fault. 'Embarrassing' more strongly implies shame or self-consciousness about something that reflects badly on someone.
What words commonly go with 'awkward'?
Common pairings include 'awkward silence', 'awkward moment', 'awkward situation', 'socially awkward', and 'feel awkward'. In the physical sense you might describe an 'awkward angle' or 'awkward position'.
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