Stumbling: meaning, definitions and examples

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stumbling

 

[ ˈstʌm.bəlɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

movement failure

Stumbling refers to the act of tripping or losing one's balance while walking or running. It can be due to various reasons, such as uneven surfaces, lack of attention, or physical impairments. Stumbling can happen to anyone and often results in a brief moment of instability before regaining composure.

Synonyms

fall, lurch, slip, trip

Examples of usage

  • She stumbled over the uneven pavement.
  • He stumbled while trying to jog in the dark.
  • The toddler stumbled as he learned to walk.
  • She almost fell, but managed to catch herself before stumbling.

Translations

Translations of the word "stumbling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tropeçar

🇮🇳 ठोकर खाना

🇩🇪 stolpern

🇮🇩 terjatuh

🇺🇦 спотикатися

🇵🇱 potykać się

🇯🇵 つまずく

🇫🇷 trébucher

🇪🇸 tropiezo

🇹🇷 takılmak

🇰🇷 발이 걸리다

🇸🇦 تعثر

🇨🇿 zakopnout

🇸🇰 zakopnúť

🇨🇳 绊倒

🇸🇮 spotakniti se

🇮🇸 falla

🇰🇿 шалысу

🇬🇪 კრწნა

🇦🇿 sürüşmək

🇲🇽 tropezar

Etymology

The word 'stumble' originates from the Old English 'stumblian', which meant to come to an abrupt stop or to fall. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic root '*stumbwōną', which carries a similar meaning. Historical texts indicate that the use of the term has evolved over centuries, initially describing physical imbalance and later being metaphorically extended to describe errors or mistakes in context. The gradual transformation of the term has seen it used in various idiomatic expressions and literary works, illustrating the common nature of making mistakes, whether physically or in decision-making. The word has maintained relevance in modern English, often appearing in both everyday conversation and literary contexts to illustrate failure or unexpected turns of events.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,520, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.