a clumsy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clumsy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that is awkward or lacking grace in movement or action. Example: "He was a clumsy dancer, often stepping on his partner's toes during the performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A clumsy silhouette.

The New York Times - Arts

He's a clumsy, rabid spellbinder.

The New Yorker

(c) "A clumsy wife-leaver".

The New Yorker

But it remains a clumsy mix.

The Economist

But it was a clumsy one.

The Economist

Maybe I'm a clumsy voter.

The Guardian

Tunnelling was still a clumsy, haphazard art.

The New Yorker

Microsoft has become a clumsy, uncompetitive innovator.

The New York Times

This is a clumsy start.

The Guardian - Sport

It is a clumsy device.

The New York Times - Books

It looks like a clumsy threat.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a clumsy" to describe a person, ensure the context clarifies whether you're referring to their physical coordination, social skills, or handling of a specific situation.

Common error

Avoid assuming that physical clumsiness implies intellectual inferiority. Clumsiness can be purely physical and unrelated to a person's intelligence or competence in other areas.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clumsy" typically functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to describe a quality of lacking skill, grace, or coordination. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this function in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

14%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a clumsy" is a commonly used adjective phrase to describe something lacking skill, grace, or coordination. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its grammatical status is correct, and it appears frequently across diverse contexts, including news, wikis, and scientific publications. When writing, remember to consider the specific nuance you want to convey and whether "clumsy" accurately captures the intended meaning. Alternatives such as "awkward" or "inept" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an awkward

Emphasizes a lack of grace or social ease.

an inept

Highlights a general lack of skill or competence.

a maladroit

Focuses on a lack of dexterity or skill in handling things.

an unskillful

Directly states a lack of skill or proficiency.

a bungling

Suggests incompetence and a tendency to make mistakes.

a ham-fisted

Implies a lack of finesse and delicacy.

a gauche

Focuses on social awkwardness or lack of sophistication.

a tactless

Highlights insensitivity and a lack of social awareness.

a crude

Emphasizes a lack of refinement or sophistication.

a sloppy

Highlights a lack of care and precision.

FAQs

How can I use "a clumsy" in a sentence?

You can use "a clumsy" to describe something awkward, lacking grace, or poorly executed, such as "a clumsy attempt", "a clumsy dancer", or "a clumsy solution".

What's the difference between "a clumsy" and "an awkward"?

"A clumsy" generally refers to a lack of physical coordination or skill, while "an awkward" situation often describes a socially uncomfortable or embarrassing situation. They can sometimes be used interchangeably but not always.

What are some synonyms for "a clumsy"?

Alternatives to "a clumsy" include "an inept", "a maladroit", "an unskillful", or "a bungling", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to describe something as "a clumsy"?

While often negative, describing something as "a clumsy" can sometimes be neutral or even endearing, particularly when referring to a beginner's efforts or a humorous situation. The context is crucial.