awkward wording

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "awkward wording" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe phrasing that is clumsy, unclear, or not smooth in communication. Example: "The report was difficult to read due to its awkward wording, which made the main points hard to understand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The bad-writing apology mark is simple: as its inventor explains, it merely requires you to surround a sentence with a pair of tildes when "you're knowingly using awkward wording but don't have time to self-edit".

The New Yorker

After partisan talk radio and the blogosphere went ballistic over some awkward wording in an overall excellent prescient report on right-wing extremism, DHS apparently disconnected the printers in their Homeland Environment Threat Analysis Division.

Huffington Post

-- probably, awkward wording: does not recombination affect more than one base by definition?

Biology Direct

Sometimes a second pair of eyes can help you catch errors or awkward wording you may not have noticed.

WikiHow

Correct other problems at this time:These problems could include fixing misspelled words, unclear or awkward wording and anything else that you feel could be improved.

WikiHow

When you come back to your writing with fresh eyes, you're more likely to spot awkward wording, unnecessary phrasing, and obvious mistakes.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Awkward word for such an elegant ­composer.

The New York Times - Books

That leads into the great medium-term debate about EU membership, that awkward word "Brexit".

Independent

Mr Wen's awkward words may have done little to calm the bereaved children.

The Economist

And in any case, what would be more convincing, more moving, than awkward words delivered from the heart?

The Guardian

Mr Heald's first prizewinner struck me as a brilliantly unconventional and grammatically subtle treatment of an awkward word.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use simpler sentence structures. Break down long, convoluted sentences into shorter, more manageable ones to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using passive voice excessively, as it can often lead to "awkward wording". Opt for active voice to create clearer and more direct sentences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "awkward wording" functions primarily as a descriptive term. It's used to characterize language that is clumsy, unclear, or poorly constructed. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, with examples illustrating its use across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "awkward wording" is a descriptive term used to identify clumsy or unclear language. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and common usage across various fields such as news, wiki and science. While grammatically sound, improving instances of "awkward wording" enhances clarity and professionalism. Alternatives like "clumsy phrasing" or "inelegant phrasing" may be used for nuanced expression. By reading your writing aloud and focusing on active voice, you can minimize instances of "awkward wording" and improve your overall communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clumsy phrasing

Emphasizes the lack of skill or grace in the way something is expressed.

ungainly language

Suggests the language is difficult to handle or use effectively.

inelegant phrasing

Highlights the lack of sophistication or polish in the wording.

uncomfortable wording

Indicates the wording creates a sense of unease or difficulty.

stilted language

Implies the language is artificially formal and unnatural.

poorly worded

A general term for ineffective or substandard wording.

infelicitous phrasing

Highlights an inappropriate or unsuitable choice of words.

tortured prose

Suggests the writing is convoluted and difficult to understand.

difficult to parse

Indicates the wording is hard to analyze or understand.

convoluted syntax

Focuses on the complex and confusing structure of the sentences.

FAQs

How can I identify "awkward wording" in my writing?

Read your text aloud or ask someone else to read it. Passages that sound unnatural, confusing, or require multiple readings likely contain "awkward wording".

What are some alternatives to "awkward wording"?

You can use alternatives like "clumsy phrasing", "inelegant phrasing", or "stilted language" depending on the specific issue.

How does "awkward wording" affect the reader?

"Awkward wording" can confuse readers, slow down their comprehension, and diminish the overall impact of your message. Clear and concise language is always preferable.

Is "awkward wording" always incorrect?

While not always grammatically incorrect, "awkward wording" is stylistically undesirable. It hinders clarity and can make your writing seem unprofessional. Aim for clear and natural expression.