clumsy
KLUHM-zee
Clumsy (adj) means Awkward in movement; lacking grace or coordination. Example: “He made a clumsy attempt to catch the falling glass.”
adj
1
Awkward in movement; lacking grace or coordination.
"He made a clumsy attempt to catch the falling glass."
"The puppy was still clumsy on its oversized paws."
2
Poorly made, handled, or expressed; lacking skill or tact.
"It was a clumsy attempt at an apology."
How to use clumsy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAwkward and uncoordinated, whether physically or in how something is done or said.
Common pairings
clumsy attempt
clumsy movements
clumsy apology
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Word forms
- Plural
- clumsies
- Comparative
- clumsier
- Superlative
- clumsiest
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He made a _____ attempt to catch the falling glass.
Etymology
Likely from an older word "clumse", meaning numb or stiff with cold, plus the adjective ending -y.
Synonyms
View more →
inapt
bunglesome
incompetent
ungainly
cumbersome
clunky
gawky
unwieldy
bungling
inept
fumbling
awkward
Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “clumsy” mean?
The word “clumsy” means awkward in movement; lacking grace or coordination. In plain terms, awkward and uncoordinated, whether physically or in how something is done or said.
How do you pronounce “clumsy”?
“Clumsy” is pronounced KLUHM-zee (/ˈklʌmzi/ in IPA).
How do you use “clumsy” in a sentence?
Here is “clumsy” used in a sentence: “He made a clumsy attempt to catch the falling glass.”
What part of speech is “clumsy”?
“Clumsy” is an adjective.
Is “clumsy” a common word?
“Clumsy” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “clumsy” have?
“Clumsy” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: awkward in movement; lacking grace or coordination.
