What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
awkwardly
Example
She walked awkwardly in her new high heels. [awkwardly: adverb]
Example
He handled the delicate vase awkwardly, almost dropping it. [awkwardly: adverb]
clumsily
Example
He clumsily tripped over his own feet and fell down. [clumsily: adverb]
Example
She tried to play the piano, but her fingers moved clumsily on the keys. [clumsily: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Awkwardly is more commonly used than clumsily in everyday language. Awkwardly is versatile and covers a wider range of contexts, while clumsily is less common and more specific to physical movements or actions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between awkwardly and clumsily?
Both awkwardly and clumsily are generally informal and casual in tone. However, awkwardly can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while clumsily is more commonly used in informal conversations.
