a cumbersome object

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a cumbersome object" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an object that is heavy, awkward, or difficult to handle or manage. Example: "The old typewriter was a cumbersome object that took up too much space on the desk."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I was frozen, bleeding and angry with myself for bothering to use such a cumbersome object.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"The new wing we're building from scratch," she said, "so we know the dimensions of our biggest, heaviest, most cumbersome objects".

The New York Times - Arts

Why create a cumbersome bureaucracy?

The New York Times

It was a cumbersome and costly process.

The New York Times

The Department of Homeland Security is a cumbersome bureaucratic monster.

The Economist

Complicating matters is a cumbersome bureaucracy.

The New York Times - Sports

He wore a cumbersome white neck brace.

The New York Times - Sports

Overturning regulations is a cumbersome process.

The New York Times

Organizing feeds is a cumbersome process.

The Guardian - Tech

Drug development is a cumbersome process.

The New York Times

Why do I have such a cumbersome system?

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something as "a cumbersome object", consider specifying why it is cumbersome. Is it heavy, difficult to operate, or simply too large for the space?

Common error

While "cumbersome" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid overusing it in formal writing. Explore synonyms like "unwieldy", "burdensome", or more specific descriptions to enhance clarity and variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cumbersome object" functions primarily as a descriptive noun phrase. It is used to characterize an object as being difficult to handle or manage due to its size, weight, or complexity, as seen in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a cumbersome object" is a descriptive phrase used to characterize an object as difficult to handle or manage, as confirmed by Ludwig. While grammatically correct, its usage is relatively rare. Its primary function is to describe an object. Consider specifying why the object is cumbersome (e.g., weight, size, complexity) for greater clarity. The related phrases offer alternatives such as ""a bulky item"" or ""an unwieldy object"" to provide similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a bulky item

Replaces "cumbersome" with "bulky", emphasizing size and difficulty in handling.

an unwieldy object

Substitutes "cumbersome" with "unwieldy", highlighting the difficulty in maneuvering the object.

a burdensome item

Replaces "cumbersome" with "burdensome", focusing on the trouble it causes.

a clunky device

Uses "clunky" to suggest awkwardness and inefficiency.

a troublesome object

Replaces "cumbersome" with "troublesome", emphasizing the problems associated with it.

a hefty contraption

Emphasizes the weight and complexity of the object.

a weighty object

Focuses on the heaviness and difficulty in lifting or moving the object.

an awkward item

Highlights the inconvenient shape or design.

a complicated device

Shifts the focus to the complexity rather than the physical burden.

an intricate apparatus

Suggests that the object is complex and potentially difficult to use because of its many parts.

FAQs

How can I use "a cumbersome object" in a sentence?

You can use "a cumbersome object" to describe something that is heavy, awkward, or difficult to handle. For example: "The antique printing press was "a cumbersome object" to move."

What can I say instead of "a cumbersome object"?

Alternatives include "a bulky item", "an unwieldy object", or "a burdensome item" depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

What makes something "a cumbersome object"?

An object is considered "a cumbersome object" if it is difficult to handle or manage due to its size, weight, or complexity. This often implies that it is inconvenient or inefficient to use.

Is it better to say "cumbersome" or "burdensome" when describing an object?

Both "cumbersome" and "burdensome" can be appropriate, but they have slightly different nuances. "Cumbersome" emphasizes the difficulty in handling or managing the object physically, while "burdensome" highlights the trouble or inconvenience it causes. Choose the word that best fits the specific context.