awkward corners

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "awkward corners" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe uncomfortable or difficult situations, places, or aspects of a topic that may not be straightforward or easy to navigate. Example: "During the discussion, we found ourselves addressing some awkward corners of the project that needed careful consideration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

This has forced advocates into awkward corners.

The Economist

We run some awkward corners, full of tempo changes and swift interjections which need to be completely unanimous.

The Guardian - Music

In zero-G, the task doesn't involve any lifting, obviously, and even a one-footed lady can aid in nudging the fixtures around awkward corners.

The New Yorker

Partly for that reason, the scenes outside the bedroom pale in comparison, especially as they are inelegantly arranged in awkward corners of Adam Wiltshire's set.

The Guardian

Bartoli's voice is certainly darker and less powerful than "definitive" Normas, with some awkward corners, and her Casta Diva is careful and simmering rather than unbound and radiant.

The Guardian - Music

It's a big country, of course, and there are all kinds of awkward corners and out-of-the-way tiers -- and then you're faced with those expensive leaps to include Alaska or Hawaii.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

He bungled the last piece of paper, an awkward corner, then bungled it again.

The New Yorker

But by presenting it in such apocalyptic terms, they may be painting themselves into an awkward corner should a delay eventually be forced on them.

The Economist

Jacking up a 19th-century barn somehow seems more dignified than wedging a 21st-century toilet into an awkward corner, although, truth be told, toilet problems count for a lot more than barn raisings on DIY.

The New York Times - Arts

The Quandt family, owners of 46% of the firm's shares, suppressed their own internal divisions and put their trust in a venerable retainer, Eberhard von Kuenheim, chairman of BMW's supervisory board and a former chief executive, to steer them out of an awkward corner.

The Economist

Along the north side was the hall, pushed into an awkward corner of the curtain wall, 70 by in size and originally probably built two storeys high.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "awkward corners" to describe physical spaces, ensure that the context clearly indicates the difficulty in navigating or utilizing those spaces. For abstract uses, consider the emotional or practical challenges the phrase implies.

Common error

Avoid using "awkward corners" when simply referring to small spaces or areas. The phrase implies a deeper level of difficulty or discomfort beyond mere spatial dimensions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "awkward corners" primarily functions as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. Ludwig AI confirms it's usable in written English. It typically identifies elements or situations that present challenges or discomfort.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

13%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "awkward corners" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe challenging or uncomfortable aspects of a situation, place, or topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki sources, the phrase implies a need for careful handling and specific attention. While versatile, it's crucial to avoid misinterpreting its connotation and to consider more precise language in highly formal settings. By understanding its nuances, you can effectively use "awkward corners" to highlight and address complex situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

difficult aspects

Focuses on the difficulty inherent in certain aspects, omitting the nuance of discomfort.

uncomfortable areas

Highlights the discomfort associated with particular areas or topics, rather than difficulty.

tricky spots

Emphasizes the problematic nature of certain spots or situations, using a less formal tone.

sensitive issues

Focuses on the sensitivity surrounding certain issues, rather than their inherent difficulty or awkwardness.

problematic situations

Highlights situations that are problematic, moving away from the spatial or physical connotation of "corners".

delicate matters

Emphasizes the need for careful handling of certain matters, focusing on their fragility.

challenging facets

Highlights the challenging nature of facets or aspects, suggesting difficulty that requires effort to overcome.

thorny issues

Highlights the contentious and complicated nature of certain issues, implying potential conflict.

unpleasant aspects

Emphasizes the disagreeable nature of aspects, focusing on their unpleasantness rather than difficulty.

inconvenient areas

Highlights the inconvenience caused by certain areas or aspects, focusing on their troublesome nature.

FAQs

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

You can use "awkward corners" to describe difficult or uncomfortable aspects of a situation, such as "During the negotiation, we had to navigate some awkward corners to reach an agreement."

What are some alternatives to "awkward corners"?

Alternatives include "difficult aspects", "uncomfortable areas", or "tricky spots", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "awkward corners" in a formal setting?

Yes, "awkward corners" is acceptable in formal settings, but consider whether more precise language, such as "sensitive issues" or "delicate matters", might be more appropriate depending on the context.

What does "awkward corners" imply beyond just physical space?

Beyond physical space, "awkward corners" often implies uncomfortable or challenging situations, such as navigating "problematic situations" in a project or addressing "thorny issues" during a discussion.