looks clumsy

USAGE SUMMARY

"looks clumsy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that appears awkward or uncoordinated. For example: "His dance moves look clumsy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Yet the technology still relies on hours of recordings and looks clumsy.

The Economist

Our very own Operation Good Guys for all its acclaim, looks clumsy by comparison.

Independent

Kom looks clumsy, as she overextends to try to connect with Adams' body.

The Guardian - Sport

It looks clumsy and silly, is really fun to play, and the artwork is adorable.

The Guardian - Tech

But it looks clumsy and unfocused.Meanwhile, there is a risk that the onslaught on Mr Brown inspires a kind of sympathy with the prime minister.

The Economist

Second set, Nadal* leads Berdych 6-3, 5-4: The pugilists jab and parry but Nadal is quicker, cleverer; he makes Berdych looks clumsy.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The painting looked clumsy at first.

The New York Times - Arts

These well-trained dancers look clumsy for a reason.

The New York Times

He grew a lot in a short time and he really looked clumsy.

The Guardian - Sport

But he subsequently showed an acumen that has left his higher-profile rival looking clumsy.

The Economist

In a world of fewer dragons but a great many more snakes, it can look clumsy.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looks clumsy" to describe a visual impression of awkwardness, not necessarily inherent clumsiness. For instance, you can say, "The dancer's movements looked clumsy due to the difficult choreography," even if they are skilled.

Common error

Avoid using "looks clumsy" to describe someone's overall character or inherent abilities. It is more effective when applied to specific actions or appearances. Instead of saying "He looks clumsy", specify the situation, such as "He looks clumsy when he tries to dance".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looks clumsy" functions as a descriptive expression, indicating the apparent awkwardness or lack of coordination of someone or something. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

10%

Sport

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "looks clumsy" is a grammatically correct and neutrally-toned phrase used to describe something that appears awkward or uncoordinated. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is valid and usable in written English. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts, with other instances appearing in wiki and sports-related content. While not extremely common, it is an appropriate way to convey a visual impression of ungracefulness. Remember to focus on the visual aspect and avoid overgeneralizing the clumsiness to someone's overall character.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appears awkward

Focuses on the visual impression of awkwardness.

seems uncoordinated

Highlights the lack of coordination in movement or action.

looks ungainly

Emphasizes a lack of elegance or grace in appearance.

appears inept

Focuses on the visual impression of someone lacking skills.

seems amateurish

Highlights the lack of professional quality.

looks amateur

Highlights the lack of professional quality.

appears unpolished

Focuses on the lack of refinement or smoothness.

seems unrefined

Emphasizes the lack of sophistication or finesse.

looks ungraceful

Highlights the absence of gracefulness.

appears ham-fisted

Emphasizes a lack of sensitivity or skill.

FAQs

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

You can use "looks clumsy" to describe someone or something that appears awkward or uncoordinated in their movements or actions. For example, "The new software interface "looks clumsy" and difficult to navigate".

What are some alternatives to saying "looks clumsy"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "appears awkward", "seems uncoordinated", or "looks ungainly" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "looks clumsy" or "is clumsy"?

"Looks clumsy" describes an appearance, while "is clumsy" describes an inherent trait or frequent behavior. Use "looks clumsy" when referring to a specific instance of awkwardness. For example, "He "looks clumsy" in that suit", versus "He is clumsy and often trips".

What's the difference between "looks clumsy" and "seems unrefined"?

"Looks clumsy" generally refers to physical awkwardness or a lack of coordination, while "seems unrefined" implies a lack of polish or sophistication. For example, a dance move "looks clumsy", but a social interaction "seems unrefined".