What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gauche
Example
He was so gauche at the party, he spilled his drink on the hostess. [gauche: adjective]
Example
Her gauche attempt at small talk made everyone feel uncomfortable. [gauche: noun]
clumsy
Example
He's so clumsy, he trips over his own feet all the time. [clumsy: adjective]
Example
She dropped the vase because of her clumsy hands. [clumsy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clumsy is more commonly used than gauche in everyday language. Clumsy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while gauche is less common and refers specifically to social awkwardness.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gauche and clumsy?
Both gauche and clumsy are informal words, but gauche may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with social etiquette and manners.
