adj B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

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

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."

Poorly made, handled, or expressed; lacking skill or tact.

"It was a clumsy attempt at an apology."

How to use clumsy

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAwkward and uncoordinated, whether physically or in how something is done or said.

Common pairings

clumsy attempt clumsy movements clumsy apology

Word forms

clumsier comparative, clumsies plural, clumsiest superlative

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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.

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.