Ungraceful: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something lacking elegance or smoothness, often in movements or actions. This word tends to emphasize the lack of beauty or refinement.

• Her ungraceful dancing made the performance less enjoyable.
• The sculpture's ungraceful lines were criticized by the art community.

Appropriate for situations where something or someone seems uncomfortable, maladroit, or socially uneasy. It can describe both physical movements and social interactions.

• He felt awkward during the interview because he didn’t know how to answer the questions.
• Her awkward attempts to juggle ended in several drops.

Used when describing someone who is physically uncoordinated or prone to accidents. This word often suggests a lack of dexterity or skill.

• He is so clumsy that he spills his drink almost every morning.
• The clumsy carpenter accidentally hit his thumb with the hammer.

Applicable in situations where something is lacking refinement, sophistication, or good taste. This is often used to describe design, style, or mannerisms that are coarse or crude.

• The house had an inelegant layout that made it feel cramped.
• His inelegant manner of speaking was off-putting to some people.

Often used to describe movements or actions that lack smoothness or elegance. It can also refer to behaviors or manners that are coarse or tactless.

• Her ungraceful attempts at dancing made everyone laugh.
• His ungraceful comments during the meeting were inappropriate.

Commonly used to describe someone or something that lacks physical appeal or is not pleasing to look at. Can carry negative connotations.

• The old building was quite unattractive, with peeling paint and broken windows.
• Despite his talents, people often found him unattractive because of his rude behavior.

Typically used to describe situations, movements, or social interactions that involve discomfort or lack of ease. It can also refer to people who are socially inept.

• The conversation became awkward when no one knew what to say.
• She felt awkward trying to navigate the crowded room with her large bag.

Used to describe someone who often trips, falls, or makes mistakes due to lack of coordination. It can also refer to actions that are performed in an inept or inefficient manner.

• He is so clumsy that he spills coffee almost every morning.
• Her clumsy attempts at baking resulted in a burnt cake.