Learn how to use the comparative “clumsier” and superlative “clumsiest” with example sentences and differences.

What is the comparative form of “clumsier”?

The comparative form of “clumsier” is “clumsier”.

Example

He is clumsier than his sister when it comes to handling delicate objects.

Example

The toddler became clumsier as he tried to walk in his new shoes.

What is the superlative form of “clumsier”?

The superlative form of “clumsier” is “clumsiest”.

Example

Among all the participants, he was the clumsiest in the obstacle course.

Example

The puppy was known for being the clumsiest of the litter.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

'Most' and 'more' are generally not used with clumsy, clumsier, and clumsiest. They’re considered regular comparatives and superlatives. The forms 'more clumsy' and 'most clumsy' are not used because they sound awkward. Instead, clumsier and clumsiest are the correct and preferred forms to use.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

Clumsy does not have an irregular comparative or superlative form. It follows the standard pattern for forming comparatives and superlatives. So, to summarize: Comparative: Clumsy → Clumsier Superlative: Clumsy → Clumsiest

Expressions with similar meanings to “clumsier”

more awkward

Used to describe someone who lacks coordination or finesse

Example

She became more awkward with each step on the ice rink.

less graceful

Describing someone who lacks elegance or smoothness in their movements

Example

The dancer's partner was less graceful in their routine.

less dexterous

Referring to someone who is less skillful or coordinated with their hands

Example

He was less dexterous than his friend in playing the piano.

Expressions with similar meanings to “clumsiest”

most awkward

Used to describe someone who lacks coordination or finesse to the highest degree

Example

She was the most awkward dancer in the group.

least graceful

Describing someone who lacks elegance or smoothness in their movements to the highest degree

Example

The swan was the least graceful of all the birds.

least dexterous

Referring to someone who is least skillful or coordinated with their hands to the highest degree

Example

He was the least dexterous musician in the orchestra.

Using than with comparative “clumsier”

When using the comparative form clumsier to compare two things, you would use than to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "He is clumsier than his sister." Here, than is used to show that the level of clumsiness of 'he' is greater than the level of clumsiness of his sister.

How can I use this expression in context?

“clumsier” and “clumsiest” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.

• 1. Physical Coordination

  He became clumsier as he grew taller.

  He became clumsier as he grew taller.

• 2. Handling Objects

  She was clumsier with the delicate china than her friend.

  She was clumsier with the delicate china than her friend.

• 3. Sports

  He was the clumsiest player on the basketball team.

  He was the clumsiest player on the basketball team.

• 4. Performing Arts

  The actor's exaggerated movements made him the clumsiest performer in the play.

  The actor's exaggerated movements made him the clumsiest performer in the play.

• 5. Everyday Activities

  She became clumsier with chopsticks after living in a country where they were not commonly used.

  She became clumsier with chopsticks after living in a country where they were not commonly used.

Related idioms and phrases

All thumbs

To be clumsy or awkward with one's hands.

Example

He was all thumbs when it came to fixing things around the house.

Butterfingers

To have a tendency to drop things or be clumsy with one's hands.

Example

She dropped her phone again. She's such a butterfingers.

Like a bull in a china shop

To be very clumsy or careless in a delicate or fragile situation.

Example

He knocked over several glasses at the party. He was like a bull in a china shop.