rather awkward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rather awkward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, interaction, or expression that feels uncomfortable or clumsy. Example: "During the meeting, there was a rather awkward silence after the controversial topic was brought up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Its elongated format is rather awkward.

The New York Times - Arts

At first, it looked rather awkward.

The Guardian - Sport

This creates a rather awkward situation.

The Guardian

(Besides, it would be rather awkward on a first date).

The New York Times

Campbell's careful biography drew attention to the redeeming virtues of this stubborn, rather awkward politician.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The sheer drive to win also took this rather awkward individual right up into Bolt's realm.

Independent

This is a situation that could get, shall we say, rather awkward for you.

The New Yorker

Meeting without their powerful boss, directors are initially rather awkward, he reports.

The Economist

Matisse's rather awkward "Woman in the Nude Seated in an Armchair" made $3.66 million.

The New York Times - Arts

His recording of a rather awkward phone call to Margaret Thatcher has just surfaced.

The Guardian

This makes using the keyboard rather awkward as it is off-centre.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using "rather awkward"; while generally acceptable, a more formal setting might benefit from a more nuanced or precise adjective.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "rather awkward" when more descriptive language can paint a clearer picture. Vary your vocabulary to convey different shades of discomfort or unease, instead of defaulting to this phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rather awkward" functions as an adverb-adjective combination, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its state or quality. Ludwig examples show it typically characterizes situations, interactions, or appearances. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rather awkward" is a common and generally acceptable way to describe situations that are uncomfortable or clumsy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable across various contexts. While its neutral register makes it versatile, consider using more precise language to convey nuances in formal settings or when greater descriptive detail is needed. Remember to avoid overuse by considering related terms like "somewhat uncomfortable" or "slightly embarrassing" to provide variety and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat uncomfortable

Emphasizes the feeling of unease or discomfort more directly.

slightly embarrassing

Highlights the potential for causing shame or humiliation.

a bit clumsy

Focuses on the lack of grace or smoothness in a situation or action.

a tad difficult

Understates the awkwardness, suggesting a minor challenge.

pretty ungainly

Emphasizes the lack of physical or social elegance.

kind of sticky

Indicates a situation that is complex and hard to navigate.

uncomfortably peculiar

Highlights the strangeness of the situation, leading to discomfort.

slightly inappropriate

Suggests a breach of social norms or etiquette.

a little dicey

Indicates a situation that is risky or uncertain.

remarkably ill-fitting

Focuses on the lack of suitability or harmony in a specific context.

FAQs

How can I use "rather awkward" in a sentence?

You can use "rather awkward" to describe an uncomfortable or clumsy situation. For example: "There was a "rather awkward silence" during the meeting."

What are some alternatives to "rather awkward"?

You can use alternatives like "somewhat uncomfortable", "slightly embarrassing", or "a bit clumsy" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "rather awkward" too informal for professional writing?

While "rather awkward" is generally acceptable, consider the tone and audience. In highly formal contexts, alternatives like "somewhat uncomfortable" or a more specific descriptor might be more appropriate.

What makes a situation "rather awkward"?

A situation can be "rather awkward" if it involves social discomfort, a lack of grace, or an unexpected turn of events that creates tension. It's less severe than deeply embarrassing but more noticeable than simply unusual.