"Clumsily" vs. "awkwardly": a delicate dance of words

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 03/10/2024, 22:17

English.me team member

Clumsily and awkwardly. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "clumsily" and "awkwardly" describe a lack of grace or smoothness in action or movement.

What is different?

"Clumsily" often emphasizes physical ineptness or lack of coordination, while "awkwardly" can refer to both physical clumsiness and socially uncomfortable situations.

Which one is more common?

Examples of usage

Clumsily

She clumsily dropped the vase, shattering it on the floor.
He clumsily tripped over the curb while trying to catch the bus.

Awkwardly

He awkwardly tried to make conversation with his new colleagues.
The meeting ended awkwardly, with everyone unsure of how to leave.