What does “klutz” mean?
The phrase "klutz" means a person who is consistently clumsy or foolish in their actions. When someone calls another person a "klutz", they are highlighting their lack of coordination or their tendency to make foolish mistakes.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
She's such a klutz. She's always tripping over her own feet.
Example
Don't be such a klutz and spill your drink everywhere.
Example
He's a total klutz. He broke three dishes in one day.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing someone's clumsiness
She's such a klutz. She's always tripping over her own feet.
He's a total klutz. He broke three dishes in one day.
- 2Mocking or insulting someone's clumsiness
Don't be such a klutz and spill your drink everywhere.
You're such a klutz. Can't you do anything right?
- 3Expressing frustration or annoyance with someone's clumsiness
I can't believe you dropped the cake again, you klutz!
Why are you always knocking things over? You're such a klutz.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The term "klutz" originated in Yiddish, a language spoken by Ashkenazi Jews. It was borrowed into American English and has also become popular in Australian English.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The term "klutz" is typically used within a sentence to describe someone's clumsiness or foolishness. It is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The term "klutz" is not offensive in itself, but it can be used to mock or insult someone for being clumsy or foolish.
Audience for the phrase
The term "klutz" is commonly used by English speakers, particularly in American and Australian English. It is more likely to be used by older generations or those familiar with Yiddish or Jewish culture.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The term "klutz" is primarily used in American and Australian English, but it can be understood by English speakers in other regions as well.
