cumbersome to read

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cumbersome to read" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe text or material that is difficult to read or understand due to its complexity or length. Example: "The report was filled with technical jargon, making it cumbersome to read for those unfamiliar with the subject."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

(This makes it somewhat cumbersome to read).

The New Yorker

Something they can hang onto, that isn't cumbersome to read, and is in simple English".

The New York Times

Last month he bought the digital version of "The Bourne Identity," even though he had the actual 500-page book in his home, because "for whatever reason, it feels cumbersome to read," he said.

The New York Times - Tech

And if it feels too cumbersome to read and reply, you may not get a response at all.

Forbes

Transcripts can be both lengthy and cumbersome to read, and although participation in transcript review is voluntary, interviewees who wish to participate or who perceive pressure to participate may be negatively impacted by the time and effort required.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

We can compile phone book sized volumes of regulations and best practices, but if they are too cumbersome to be read then they are useless.

Forbes

And payment systems to charge EVs are cumbersome to say the least.

Huffington Post

But for now at least, I can strike "cumbersome dead tree novel to read during take-off and landing" from my list of in-flight essential items.

The Guardian - Opinion

The system was cumbersome and prints were difficult to read.

The New York Times

It worked well and was very easy to read, but I found the wire cumbersome, especially when it came time for basting.

The New York Times - Food

His book manages to be funny, shrewd and moving, with a complex structure that never feels cumbersome, and a finale so intense that you want to read it very slowly, almost one word at a time.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cumbersome to read", consider if a simpler alternative like "difficult to read" would be clearer and more impactful for your audience. Simplicity often enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "cumbersome to read" in informal writing or conversation, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. In these settings, a simpler phrase like "hard to read" is generally more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cumbersome to read" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun (often implied). It describes the quality of a text or document that makes it difficult or inconvenient to read. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is usable in written English and appropriate for describing text that is difficult due to complexity or length.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cumbersome to read" is a grammatically sound way to describe text that is difficult or inconvenient to read, though Ludwig AI indicates it's more appropriate for neutral to formal registers. While not overly common, it appears in credible sources like the The New York Times and Forbes. When using it, consider whether simpler alternatives such as "difficult to read" or "hard to read" might be more effective. Remember to avoid overuse in informal contexts to prevent sounding overly formal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Difficult to read

Replaces "cumbersome" with a more direct synonym, focusing on the challenge of reading.

Hard to read

Uses simpler language to convey the difficulty of reading.

Tedious to read

Highlights the boring or monotonous aspect of reading the material.

Laborious to read

Emphasizes the effort required to read and understand the text.

Tiresome to read

Focuses on the draining effect of reading the material.

Burdensome to read

Stresses the heavy or oppressive feeling associated with reading.

Awkward to read

Indicates that the text is clumsy or poorly written, making it difficult to follow.

Challenging to read

Highlights the intellectual demand of the reading material.

Demanding to read

Similar to "challenging", but emphasizes the effort and focus required.

Unwieldy to read

Suggests that the text is difficult to handle or manage due to its size or complexity.

FAQs

What does "cumbersome to read" mean?

The phrase "cumbersome to read" describes something that is difficult or inconvenient to read due to its length, complexity, or poor organization. It suggests that the reading experience is burdensome or tedious.

What can I say instead of "cumbersome to read"?

You can use alternatives like "difficult to read", "hard to read", or "tedious to read" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "cumbersome to read" in formal writing?

Yes, "cumbersome to read" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing technical documents or reports. However, ensure that the formality aligns with the overall tone of your writing.

How can I avoid making my writing "cumbersome to read"?

To avoid making your writing "cumbersome to read", use clear and concise language, break up long paragraphs, and organize your content logically. Consider using headings and subheadings to improve readability.