Clumsiness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿคน
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clumsiness

[หˆklสŒmziหˆnษ™s ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

physical coordination

Clumsiness refers to the quality of lacking physical coordination and being awkward in movement. It can manifest in a variety of ways, such as dropping objects frequently, tripping over one's own feet, or bumping into things unintentionally.

Synonyms

awkwardness, ineptitude, ungracefulness.

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Word Description / Examples
clumsiness

Used when referring to someoneโ€™s lack of physical coordination or when someone is prone to stumbling or accidents.

  • Her clumsiness was evident when she tripped over the same step twice
  • The childโ€™s clumsiness led to a broken vase
awkwardness

Applied in social situations where someone feels uncomfortable, unsure, or out of place. It can also refer to physical awkwardness, but is more commonly used socially.

  • There was an awkwardness in the room after his inappropriate joke
  • She felt a sense of awkwardness meeting her ex at the party
ineptitude

Best used when describing someoneโ€™s lack of skill or competence, especially in a professional or technical setting. This term often has a negative connotation.

  • His ineptitude at the job was apparent from the poorly done reports
  • The team's ineptitude resulted in a failed project
ungracefulness

Refers to a lack of elegance or smoothness in movement. This term often describes physical actions and is not used for social situations.

  • Her ungracefulness on the dance floor made everyone smile
  • Despite his charm, his ungracefulness was evident in every step

Examples of usage

  • He is known for his clumsiness, always spilling his drink or knocking things over.
  • Her clumsiness became evident when she tried to dance and kept stepping on her partner's feet.

Translations

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Origin of 'clumsiness'

The word 'clumsiness' originated from the Old English word 'clumsen', which meant 'lumpish' or 'fennel'. Over time, the meaning evolved to describe a lack of physical coordination or grace. Clumsiness is often associated with a lack of fine motor skills or spatial awareness, leading to awkward movements and frequent accidents.


See also: clumsily.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,004, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.