awkward message

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "awkward message" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a communication that feels uncomfortable or clumsy, often in a social or professional context. Example: "After sending that awkward message, I realized I should have chosen my words more carefully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

When a new Chinese ambassador arrived in Addis Ababa in February, he presented an unexpectedly awkward message to his hosts.

The Economist

But the naked appeal to popular nationalism and the invocation of the goal of national strength send an awkward message to China's neighbours.

The Economist

Jeggan Grey-Johnson, a spokesman of the pan-African civil society coalition, the AU We Want, said Mugabe's election would send "mixed signals and an extremely awkward message on international levels on how the AU stands on principles of democracy and good governance".

The Guardian

That's the sticky, awkward message these guys have for us.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

In "The Skinny," though, he uses the trappings of soft-core pornography to dress up awkward messages about sexual responsibility and abiding friendship, with uneven results.

The New York Times

"I travel" Because there is no point in being snapped outside the Taj Mahal if at some point in your life it doesn't result in awkward messaging on an app that will help you find The One. Saw a beautiful sunset?

The Guardian - Opinion

Of course, plenty of actual dates happen as a result of Tinder and its imitators, but it can take a lot of awkward messaging to get there.

TechCrunch

America has a long history of experimenting with crafty ways to convey awkward messages.

Vice

Sometimes, you're just too muddled with flirts, weird awkward messages that disregard any and all social norms, and receding hairlines.

Huffington Post

Munich police investigator Robert Heimberger says Sonboly apparently set out to lure fellow teenagers to the restaurant using an awkward Facebook message on an account he stole.

The Guardian

15346c62-56c1-40f0-818c-ddde2f3e21fa In July, Canadian sextet Arcade Fire confirmed the release date for their forthcoming fourth album not with a press release or an awkward video message on their Facebook page, but through the medium of Twitter.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal settings, be mindful of the potential impact of the "awkward message" and consider if it is appropriate to send it.

Common error

Avoid using "awkward message" too casually in business contexts. Opt for more specific and professional language to describe the communication issue, such as "unclear messaging" or "inadvertent miscommunication".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "awkward message" functions as a noun phrase, where "awkward" modifies the noun "message". It describes a message that causes discomfort or is socially inappropriate. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "awkward message" is a valid and usable expression to describe a communication that causes discomfort or social unease. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and notes its use across various contexts, predominantly within news and media. While grammatically sound, remember that "awkward" carries subjective weight. Alternatives like "uncomfortable communication" or "clumsy communication" may provide a more precise description. Consider the audience and purpose when using this phrase, and strive for clarity and sensitivity in your communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

uncomfortable communication

Focuses on the discomfort the message causes, rather than the message itself.

clumsy communication

Highlights the lack of finesse or grace in the way the message is conveyed.

difficult message to deliver

Emphasizes the challenge in communicating the message effectively.

sensitive information

Focuses on the delicate nature of the information being conveyed.

thorny subject

Implies the topic is difficult and potentially problematic to discuss.

delicate matter

Indicates the issue requires careful handling due to its sensitivity.

unpleasant news

Highlights the negative emotional impact of the message.

tricky announcement

Focuses on the challenging nature of making the announcement.

challenging communication

Emphasizes the difficulty of the exchange.

ill-timed communication

Highlights the inappropriateness of the time when the communication happened.

FAQs

What makes a message "awkward"?

A message can be considered "awkward" when it causes discomfort, embarrassment, or is socially inappropriate due to its content, timing, or delivery. It often deviates from expected social norms.

What can I say instead of "awkward message"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "uncomfortable communication", "clumsy communication", or "difficult message to deliver".

How do I avoid sending an "awkward message"?

Before sending a message, review it to ensure it's clear, concise, and appropriate for the recipient and context. Consider the potential impact of your words and adjust accordingly.

Is it always bad to send an "awkward message"?

Not necessarily. Sometimes, honesty or directness might come across as "awkward" but are necessary for clear communication or setting boundaries. However, it's important to be mindful of the recipient's feelings.