What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cumbersome
Example
The new sofa was too cumbersome to fit through the narrow doorway. [cumbersome: adjective]
Example
The bureaucratic process for obtaining a visa was quite cumbersome. [cumbersome: adjective]
clumsy
Example
He was so clumsy that he tripped over his own feet. [clumsy: adjective]
Example
The chair was so poorly made that it wobbled and creaked with every movement. [clumsy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clumsy is more commonly used than cumbersome in everyday language. Clumsy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while cumbersome is less common and tends to be used in more formal or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between cumbersome and clumsy?
While cumbersome is typically associated with a formal and serious tone, clumsy is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
