clumsy expressions

USAGE SUMMARY

"clumsy expressions" is an appropriate phrase to use in written English.
It can be used to describe phrases, sentences, or word choices that are awkward, imprecise, or excessively wordy. For example: "The author's clumsy expressions made it difficult to understand the writer's message."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But how embarrassed are you allowed to be at the candidate your own party nominated, and hailed, and whose worst gaffes — including the "gifts" line — are clumsy expressions of your actual policies?

The New Yorker

Luo's sense of indignation seemed to reflect an implicit belief that achievement or birthright should insulate one from such clumsy expressions of racism, especially in a place like Manhattan.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The use of jargon, clumsy expression or clichés can sabotage the chances of even the most capable of candidates.

The Guardian

There's a strain of thwarted puritanism than runs through his work as a whole, but this is its crudest and clumsiest expression – at best slightly goofy, at worst vaguely sinister.

The Guardian - Books

This clumsy formula, however, was soon discarded.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Both women are inward-looking and mercilessly observant, and sometimes a little clumsy in their expression.

The Guardian - Books

His art had developed slowly from his first clumsy attempts at expression to the apparently playful masterpieces of his later period.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I promise my expressions were clumsy, but they were counted.

Huffington Post

Sometimes fusion look clumsy.

Independent

And since when is a clumsy, propagandish, inaccurate film an expression of "American values"?

The New York Times

Perhaps it's the proposition that you're such a comforting luxury (for me) that you've become a necessity (for me) for most intents and purposes a proposition whose explicit expression is regrettably clumsy and longwinded and ungenerous.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "clumsy expressions", consider the audience and context. In formal writing, strive for clarity and precision to avoid any ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "clumsy expressions" to describe highly sensitive or critical subjects. Consider using more nuanced and empathetic alternatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clumsy expressions" functions as a noun phrase, where "clumsy" modifies the noun "expressions". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase describes language that lacks finesse or is awkward. It identifies expressions that are not well-crafted or are used ineffectively.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clumsy expressions" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe awkward or imprecise language. While infrequent, as indicated by Ludwig, its usage spans across News & Media, encyclopedias, and science. The phrase is best used to critique language, but should be avoided in highly formal or sensitive contexts in favor of more nuanced options such as "awkward phrasing" or "inelegant language". Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English, highlighting its effectiveness when used judiciously and contextually.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

awkward phrasing

Focuses specifically on the awkwardness of the word choice.

inelegant language

Highlights the lack of grace and sophistication in the language used.

maladroit phrasing

Highlights the clumsy and awkward nature of the phrasing.

unskillful wording

Emphasizes the lack of skill in the way something is worded.

unclear articulation

Highlights the lack of clarity in how something is expressed.

poorly articulated thoughts

Shifts the focus to the clarity and coherence of the thoughts being expressed.

ineffective communication

Broadens the scope to the overall effectiveness of the communication.

garbled statements

Suggests that the expressions are confused and difficult to understand.

inarticulate utterances

Emphasizes the difficulty in expressing oneself clearly.

ham-fisted language

Implies a heavy-handed and insensitive approach to language.

FAQs

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

You can use "clumsy expressions" to describe language that is awkward, unclear, or poorly constructed. For example, "The politician's speech was filled with "clumsy expressions" that confused the audience."

What are some alternatives to "clumsy expressions"?

Depending on the specific nuance you want to convey, you can use alternatives such as "awkward phrasing", "inelegant language", or "unclear articulation".

Is it appropriate to use "clumsy expressions" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "clumsy expressions" might be considered too informal for some academic contexts. Consider using more precise and technical terms to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "clumsy expressions" and "poorly worded"?

"Clumsy expressions" emphasizes the awkwardness or inelegance of the language, while "poorly worded" focuses more on the lack of clarity or effectiveness in conveying a message.