Gauche: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who is socially awkward or lacking social grace. This word often implies a lack of sophistication or finesse.

• His gauche comments made everyone at the dinner table uncomfortable.
• She felt gauche at the formal event, unsure of how to behave.

Refers to situations or people that cause discomfort or embarrassment. It can also describe physical inelegance or difficulty in performing tasks.

• The silence after his joke was awkward.
• She looked awkward trying to carry all those boxes by herself.

Describes someone who often has accidents or makes mistakes, usually due to a lack of coordination or care. It can also refer to poorly executed actions.

• He knocked over the vase in his usual clumsy manner.
• Her clumsy attempt at fixing the lamp only made it worse.

Implies a lack of sensitivity in dealing with others. It often refers to comments or actions that are unintentionally offensive or hurtful.

• His tactless remark about her cooking offended everyone at the table.
• She made a tactless comment about his appearance, not realizing how hurtful it was.

Used to describe someone who is socially awkward or lacking in social graces, mannerisms, or sophistication.

• Her dinner party was a disaster because she made several gauche comments that offended her guests

Informal term for a person who is clumsy or accident-prone. Often used in a more lighthearted or affectionate manner.

• I tripped over my own feet again; sometimes I feel like such a klutz

Refers to a person who is rude, ill-mannered, or insensitive. It has a negative connotation.

• He acted like a total boor at the wedding, interrupting the speeches and talking loudly over everyone

Describes someone who is stupid, awkward, or clumsy, often lacking sensitivity or intelligence. It has a negative connotation.

• Don't let that clod handle the delicate glassware; he'll break something for sure