albeit clumsy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "albeit clumsy" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a concession or acknowledgment of a flaw or imperfection in something that is otherwise acceptable or valid. Example: "The presentation was, albeit clumsy, effective in conveying the main ideas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

For all its macho posturing and infantile humour, Big Wednesday does achieve a moving, albeit clumsy lyricism.

The Guardian - Film

In my twenties I started a beat poetry band and expressed my creative zest for beats and words with some enthusiastic, albeit clumsy, spoken-word.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It has a functioning tax system, albeit a clumsy one, so has something to lose from uprooting its tax system and starting again.

The Economist

Not surprisingly, the plan deals with some economic inefficiencies, albeit in a clumsy way, and will provide the biggest benefits to the wealthy.

The New York Times

The 1946 picture titled "Buste de Françoise," purporting to portray Picasso's companion Françoise Gilot, comes too close to spoofy caricature and is a bit too clumsy, albeit deliberately so.

The New York Times - Arts

Emma Koonse of Christian Post opined that together the sisters were Disney's "most lovable and charismatic characters yet", and Debbie Lynn Elias of Culver City Observer commented, "Elsa and Anna are like two sides of a coin, both strong, albeit one through power and confidence and the other through clumsy sticktuitiveness and love".

Wikipedia

"Oh... hi," he says, for clumsy openers.

The New Yorker

We float like clumsy mantas.

The New York Times - Travel

Kind of clumsy, you know?

The New York Times

As for Clumsy Ninja, while I didn't have the chance to see much, what I did see was equally impressive, albeit in a different way.

TechCrunch

The Guardian gave "Ringo 2012" a review of two stars out of five, saying the album sounds "a bit like the Beatles' later output, albeit with their genius watered down to homeopathic levels" and missteps with "a clumsy version of Buddy Holly's 'Think it Over' that never recovers from a spectacularly ill-conceived intro".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "albeit clumsy" to acknowledge a minor flaw or awkwardness while still emphasizing the overall positive aspect of something. This adds nuance and honesty to your writing.

Common error

While "albeit clumsy" is acceptable, excessive use, particularly in formal writing, can make your prose sound repetitive or unprofessional. Consider using more sophisticated synonyms like "though awkward" or "while imperfectly executed" to maintain a polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "albeit clumsy" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifically a conjunction phrase, that concedes a negative quality (clumsiness) while still asserting a positive or acceptable outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "albeit clumsy" is a grammatically correct phrase used to acknowledge a minor flaw while emphasizing a more positive overall assessment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is typically used in neutral contexts, often within news and media. While "albeit" leans towards the formal, the addition of "clumsy" balances the tone, making it suitable for general writing. Though not highly frequent, understanding its nuanced usage can add depth and honesty to your expression. When using "albeit clumsy", consider alternatives such as "though awkward" or "even if ungraceful" to avoid repetition and maintain a polished style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

though awkward

Replaces "albeit clumsy" with a more direct adjective describing the awkwardness.

even if ungraceful

Focuses on the lack of grace rather than clumsiness, providing a slightly different nuance.

while imperfect

Highlights the imperfection as a contrast to the overall positive aspect.

despite its flaws

Generalizes the imperfection to "flaws", making it less specific than "clumsy".

although imperfectly executed

Emphasizes the execution of something being imperfect rather than a general state of clumsiness.

even if a bit unrefined

Conveys a lack of polish, offering a more sophisticated alternative to clumsiness.

however inelegantly

Shifts focus to elegance, suggesting a lack thereof, which is similar to clumsiness.

though somewhat awkward

Adds "somewhat" to soften the bluntness of "awkward", making it a more subtle concession.

albeit unskillfully

Replaces "clumsy" with "unskillfully", highlighting a lack of skill rather than physical clumsiness.

even when awkward

Similar to "though awkward", but emphasizes that the result occurred despite the awkwardness.

FAQs

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

You can use "albeit clumsy" to acknowledge a minor flaw or awkwardness while still emphasizing the overall positive aspect of something. For example: "The presentation was, "albeit clumsy", effective in conveying the main ideas."

What can I say instead of "albeit clumsy"?

You can use alternatives like "though awkward", "even if ungraceful", or "while imperfect" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "albeit clumsy" or "although clumsy"?

"Albeit clumsy" and "although clumsy" are both grammatically correct. "Albeit" is a more formal and slightly less common synonym for "although".

What's the difference between "albeit clumsy" and "albeit awkward"?

The difference between ""albeit clumsy"" and "albeit awkward" is subtle. "Clumsy" often implies physical awkwardness or a lack of skill, while "awkward" can refer to social situations or general unease. The choice depends on the specific context.