adj
clumsy
KLUHM-zee
adj
1
Awkward in movement; lacking grace or coordination.
"He made a clumsy attempt to catch the falling glass."
"The puppy was still clumsy on its oversized paws."
2
Poorly made, handled, or expressed; lacking skill or tact.
"It was a clumsy attempt at an apology."
How to Use Clumsy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAwkward and uncoordinated, whether physically or in how something is done or said.
Common pairings
clumsy attempt
clumsy movements
clumsy apology
Word Forms
clumsier comparative, clumsies plural, clumsiest superlative
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He made a _____ attempt to catch the falling glass.
Etymology
Likely from an older word "clumse", meaning numb or stiff with cold, plus the adjective ending -y.