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Floundering: meaning, definitions and examples

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floundering

 

[ ˈflaʊndərɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

struggling situation

To flounder means to struggle clumsily or helplessly in water or in a difficult situation. It often describes a person who is in distress and unable to move forward effectively, whether in action or thought. The term might suggest a lack of control or direction, indicating that someone is battling against overwhelming circumstances. Floundering can also refer to confusion or uncertainty in decision-making, where one feels lost and unsure of the next steps to take.

Synonyms

falter, flail, struggle, wrestle.

Examples of usage

  • The swimmer started floundering when the waves became too strong.
  • During the meeting, he was floundering when asked about the project's status.
  • The company began floundering in a competitive market.
  • She was floundering in her studies after missing several classes.

Translations

Translations of the word "floundering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 debater-se

🇮🇳 लड़खड़ाना

🇩🇪 torkeln

🇮🇩 terhuyung-huyung

🇺🇦 плутати

🇵🇱 potykać się

🇯🇵 よろめく

🇫🇷 tituber

🇪🇸 tambalearse

🇹🇷 sendelemek

🇰🇷 비틀거리다

🇸🇦 التعثر

🇨🇿 klopýtat

🇸🇰 zakopnúť

🇨🇳 蹒跚

🇸🇮 spotikati se

🇮🇸 hrasa

🇰🇿 тартқылау

🇬🇪 ბორგვა

🇦🇿 sürüşmək

🇲🇽 tambalearse

Etymology

The word 'flounder' originates from the Middle English term 'floundren', which meant to sink or to struggle in water. Its roots can be traced back to the Old English word 'flundur', implying movement in a clumsy and uncoordinated manner. The term has evolved over time to encompass not only physical struggles in water but also metaphorical struggles in various challenging situations. The connection to fish, specifically the flatfish called a flounder, adds depth to the imagery of the word, as these fish can appear awkward when they are out of water or trying to navigate the ocean floor. The use of 'floundering' in contemporary language often emphasizes feelings of helplessness or confusion, reflecting the challenges individuals face in both personal and professional realms.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,736, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.