What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bumbling
Example
He is always bumbling around and knocking things over. [bumbling: verb]
Example
The bumbling waiter dropped the tray of glasses. [bumbling: adjective]
fumbling
Example
She was fumbling with the keys, trying to unlock the door. [fumbling: verb]
Example
The fumbling quarterback dropped the ball during the game. [fumbling: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fumbling is more commonly used than bumbling in everyday language. Fumbling is versatile and covers a wider range of contexts, while bumbling is less common and has a slightly more humorous connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bumbling and fumbling?
Both bumbling and fumbling are generally informal words. However, fumbling can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while bumbling is more commonly used in informal or humorous situations.
