Clumsy: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to someone or something that often has accidents or lacks skill and grace in movement.

• He is so clumsy; he always trips over his own feet.
• The clumsy waiter spilled soup all over the table.

Applicable when describing situations or people who cause discomfort due to lack of social finesse or grace. It can also describe something difficult to handle physically.

• Her awkward silence made everyone in the room uncomfortable.
• Carrying the large, awkward box was a real challenge.

Refers to someone or something that is awkward or clumsy, often with a focus on movement or physical presence, and implies a lack of grace.

• The ungainly giraffe stumbled through the grass awkwardly.
• His ungainly way of dancing made everyone laugh.

Used to describe someone who lacks skill or competence in a particular activity or job. Typically carries a more negative connotation.

• He is completely inept at managing his team, leading to numerous issues.
• Her inept handling of the situation only made things worse.

Used to describe someone who tends to drop things or bump into things, often physically uncoordinated.

• She is so clumsy that she spilled her coffee all over the table
• His clumsy dance steps made everyone laugh

Often refers to social situations where someone feels uneasy, uncomfortable, or out of place.

• There was an awkward silence during dinner
• Meeting his ex-girlfriend at the party was quite awkward

Describes someone who is completely lacking skill or competence in a particular area. Often has a more negative or critical connotation.

• He was completely inept at handling even the simplest of tasks
• Her ineptitude in cooking was obvious from the burnt dinner

Refers to someone who speaks or acts without considering other people's feelings, often resulting in offending others.

• His tactless comments about her weight made everyone uncomfortable
• She has a tactless way of bringing up sensitive topics

Describes someone who lacks skill or proficiency in a specific area or activity, but generally less harsh than 'inept'.

• The unskillful painter could not stay inside the lines
• His unskillful attempt at playing the guitar was painful to listen to