clumsy
Adjective
Easy difficulty
What does “clumsy” mean?
adjective.awkward in movement or in handling things.
SAT Usage
The term is often used in contexts involving physical actions, social interactions, or character descriptions, emphasizing a lack of grace or skill. It suggests not only physical awkwardness but can also imply a broader social ineptitude, differentiating it from words like "awkward," which may not always convey the same level of physical inelegance.
Common Confusions
Clumsy implies a lack of grace or skill in physical actions, while awkward usually suggests social discomfort or unease without necessarily implying physical inelegance.
Do not choose clumsy if the context emphasizes gracefulness or skillfulness rather than awkwardness in movement or in handling things.
Example Sentences
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He's very clumsy. I wouldn't trust him with carrying the dishes.
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It is a clumsy solution, but it might work for now.