Reading Theme:
Clumsy Definition, Usage & Related Words (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：not graceful (clumsy)
clumsy
/ˈklʌmzi/
adj.
Moving or doing things in a way that is not smooth or graceful, often dropping or breaking things.
not graceful
➕
/ˌnɒt ˈɡreɪsfʊl/
adj.
Describes a person or movement that lacks coordination, smoothness, or skill, often resulting in accidents or mishaps.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
Likely from obsolete 'clumsen', meaning benumbed or stiff, possibly of Scandinavian origin.
💡 Mnemonic
Imagine a person whose hands feel like thick 'clumps' of wood, making them 'clumsy' and prone to dropping things.
📖 Example
Xiao Ming was so clumsy that he knocked over his coffee cup while trying to grab a book.
Xiao Ming was so not graceful that he knocked over his coffee cup while trying to grab a book.
🔗 Collocations
clumsy fingers – fingers that lack dexterity
a clumsy attempt – an awkward and unsuccessful effort to do something
clumsy movement – an uncoordinated or awkward physical action
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
clumsily (adv.) – In an awkward, ungraceful manner.
clumsiness (n.) – The quality or state of being awkward in movement or performance.
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'clumsy' likely evolved in the mid-17th century, describing someone who is 'awkward in movement or action'. It is etymologically connected to the word 'clump', suggesting heavy, uncoordinated movement, like someone walking in clumps.
Meaning 2：tactless (clumsy)
clumsy
/ˈklʌmzi/
adj.
Lacking social skill and saying or doing things that upset others without meaning to.
tactless
➕
/ˈtæktləs/
adj.
Describes behavior, remarks, or actions that are socially awkward, insensitive, or lacking in tact, often unintentionally causing offense or discomfort.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
His clumsy attempt at a joke about her new haircut made everyone feel awkward.
His tactless attempt at a joke about her new haircut made everyone feel awkward.
🔗 Collocations
a clumsy remark – an insensitive or ill-considered comment
clumsy diplomacy – inept or tactless handling of a sensitive situation
clumsy apology – an awkward or poorly expressed statement of regret
🔄 Synonyms
tactless (adj.) – Having or showing a lack of adroitness and sensitivity in dealing with others or with difficult issues.
insensitive (adj.) – Showing or feeling no concern for the feelings or circumstances of others.
gauche (adj.) – Lacking social grace; awkward and tactless.
🚫 Antonyms
tactful (adj.) – Having or showing skill and sensitivity in dealing with others or with difficult issues.
diplomatic (adj.) – Having or showing an ability to deal with people in a sensitive and effective way.
🌱 Derivatives
clumsily (adv.) – In a tactless or socially awkward manner.
clumsiness (n.) – The quality of being insensitive or lacking social grace.
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