noun

clumsiness

KLUHM-zee-nuhs

Clumsiness (noun) means a lack of physical grace or coordination. Example: “His clumsiness meant he was always knocking things over.”

noun

A lack of physical grace or coordination.

"His clumsiness meant he was always knocking things over."

"She laughed off her clumsiness after tripping on the rug."

How to use clumsiness

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe quality of being clumsy — awkward or uncoordinated.

Common pairings

sheer clumsiness a moment of clumsiness

clumsinesses plural

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Can you complete this real example?

His _____ meant he was always knocking things over.

Formed from clumsy plus the noun-forming suffix -ness.

stiffness awkwardness slowness ineptness ineptitude maladroitness gracelessness

skill inability thickness competence hardness deliberation stiffness awkwardness

business ugliness laziness holiness happiness craziness weariness readiness emptiness manliness dizziness tardiness

What does “clumsiness” mean?

The word “clumsiness” means a lack of physical grace or coordination. In plain terms, the quality of being clumsy — awkward or uncoordinated.

How do you pronounce “clumsiness”?

“Clumsiness” is pronounced KLUHM-zee-nuhs (/ˈklʌm.zi.nəs/ in IPA).

How do you use “clumsiness” in a sentence?

Here is “clumsiness” used in a sentence: “His clumsiness meant he was always knocking things over.”

What part of speech is “clumsiness”?

“Clumsiness” is a noun.

skill inability thickness competence hardness deliberation stiffness awkwardness