appears awkward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "appears awkward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, sentence, or expression that seems uncomfortable or not smooth in its presentation. Example: "The way he phrased his apology appears awkward and may not convey the sincerity he intended."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Although this appears awkward, the notation works well for computers.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Shurna, whose nickname is the Baby-Faced Assassin, appears awkward talking about his own success.

The New York Times

A baby will show a preference for a person who is familiar over someone who is a stranger, and not someone who appears awkward or fake around them.

The Guardian - Opinion

When, on occasion, one spots Rather at a book party or any other sort of celebration, he often appears awkward, as if he were fulfilling an obligation.

The New Yorker

While that may be literally true — there is a legal basis — it appears awkward in retrospect that Mr. De's defense of the agency failed to mention its collection of phone data on Americans.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

He has often appeared awkward and made unforced errors.

The Economist

It's on camera, in fact, where most people appear awkward and undignified.

The New Yorker

Her dancers often appear awkward, even silly, in ill-fitting costumes or unflattering arrangements.

The Economist

Rather, it's the shifts in tone between them that appear awkward.

The Guardian - Books

Even though his movements appear awkward & impetuous, there's no loss of tonal beauty or accuracy of intonation.

The New Yorker

Both Huckabee and Santorum spoke briefly at Trump's event, appearing awkward at a podium emblazoned with the name "Trump".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "appears awkward", ensure the subject and context clearly indicate what is causing the perceived awkwardness. Provide enough detail for the reader to understand the basis of your assessment.

Common error

Avoid using "appears awkward" in highly formal writing, such as academic papers or legal documents. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives like "seems inappropriate" or "presents challenges" to maintain a serious tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "appears awkward" functions as a subjective assessment, indicating that something gives the impression of being uncomfortable or clumsy. As evidenced by Ludwig, it serves to introduce an observation that might not necessarily be a definitive truth, but rather a perceived quality.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "appears awkward" is a phrase used to express a subjective assessment of something being uncomfortable, clumsy, or out of place. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase follows standard grammatical rules and is correct and usable in written English. While not exceptionally frequent, it finds consistent use in news articles, encyclopedias, and general descriptive contexts. For more formal situations, alternatives like "seems inappropriate" or "presents challenges" may be more suitable. Overall, "appears awkward" serves as a useful tool for expressing observations about perceived unease or lack of smoothness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seems clumsy

Focuses on the lack of physical grace or smoothness.

looks ungainly

Highlights the unaesthetic or uncoordinated appearance.

comes across as uncomfortable

Emphasizes the feeling of unease the subject projects.

projects unease

Focuses on the emanation of discomfort.

presents as stiff

Highlights a lack of flexibility or naturalness.

feels unnatural

Shifts the perspective to the perceived artificiality of the situation or behavior.

gives off a stilted vibe

Focuses on the artificial and unnatural feeling conveyed.

seems forced

Highlights the lack of spontaneity or genuineness.

appears contrived

Emphasizes the artificial and planned nature of the appearance.

looks ill at ease

Focuses on the visible discomfort and lack of relaxation.

FAQs

How can I use "appears awkward" in a sentence?

You can use "appears awkward" to describe situations, actions, or even objects that seem uncomfortable or out of place. For example: "His attempt at humor "appears awkward" given the somber mood".

What's a more formal alternative to "appears awkward"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "seems inappropriate", "presents challenges", or "is ill-advised" as alternatives to "appears awkward".

Is it always negative to say something "appears awkward"?

While often used in a negative context, describing something as "appears awkward" isn't always inherently negative. It can simply point out a lack of smoothness or an unusual presentation, without necessarily implying fault or criticism.

What's the difference between "appears awkward" and "is awkward"?

"Appears awkward" suggests a subjective assessment based on observation. Saying something "is awkward" implies a more definitive judgment, potentially based on more comprehensive knowledge. The former leaves room for interpretation, while the latter presents a more assertive statement.