Klutz Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐คฆ
klutz
[klสts ]
Definitions
person
A clumsy, awkward, or foolish person.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| klutz |
This term is often used to describe someone who is physically awkward or clumsy in a way that is somewhat endearing. It often carries a slightly humorous or affectionate tone.
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| clumsy |
Describes someone who is not very coordinated and often drops things or has accidents. It generally focuses on physical actions and carries a mildly negative tone.
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| awkward |
Often describes someone who is not very good at social interactions or physically adept. It can be used in both social and physical contexts. The tone is generally neutral but can be slightly negative depending on the context.
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| foolish |
Used to describe someone who makes poor decisions or lacks good judgment. This term is more critical and carries a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- He's such a klutz, always dropping things and tripping over his own feet.
- Don't ask him to carry the cake, he's a total klutz.
informal
An inept person; someone who is not very skilled at a particular task.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| klutz |
Oftentimes used informally to describe someone who is physically awkward and prone to accidents, usually in a light-hearted or humorous way.
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| inept |
Describes someone who is unskilled or incompetent in a specific situation or tasks. This term has a more negative connotation and indicates a severe lack of ability.
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| unskilled |
Refers to someone who lacks the skills or training for a particular task or job. This term is more neutral and professional, often used in job descriptions or assessments.
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| clumsy |
Used to describe someone who has a general awkwardness in physical movements. This term can be both light-hearted and slightly critical depending on the situation.
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Examples of usage
- She's a bit of a klutz when it comes to using technology.
- I'm a total klutz when it comes to cooking.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'klutz'
The word 'klutz' is derived from Yiddish, a language historically spoken by Ashkenazi Jews. In Yiddish, 'klots' means a block of wood or a wooden beam. Over time, the term evolved to refer to a clumsy or awkward person. The word entered the English language in the early 20th century through Jewish immigrants in the United States, and it has since become a colloquial term used to describe someone who is clumsy or inept.