What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nongracefully
Example
She nongracefully stumbled down the stairs. [nongracefully: adverb]
Example
He tried to dance, but moved nongracefully and stepped on his partner's toes. [nongracefully: adverb]
clumsily
Example
He clumsily dropped the glass and it shattered on the floor. [clumsily: adverb]
Example
She tried to play the piano, but played clumsily and hit the wrong keys. [clumsily: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clumsily is more commonly used than nongracefully in everyday language. Clumsily is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while nongracefully is less common and refers specifically to a lack of grace or elegance.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nongracefully and clumsily?
Both nongracefully and clumsily are informal words that are suitable for casual conversation or writing. Neither word is particularly formal or academic in tone.
