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awkward

[ˈɔːkwəd]

awkward Definition

  • 1causing difficulty or embarrassment
  • 2not graceful; ungainly

Using awkward: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "awkward" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    It was an awkward situation when I accidentally spilled coffee on my boss.

  • Example

    He felt awkward when he realized he had worn mismatched shoes to work.

  • Example

    The new dance routine was awkward for her to learn.

awkward Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with awkward

  • a moment of silence that is uncomfortable or embarrassing

    Example

    After the joke fell flat, there was an awkward silence in the room.

  • a moment that is uncomfortable or embarrassing

    Example

    It was an awkward moment when she realized she had called her teacher 'mom'.

  • a hand gesture used to break an awkward silence or moment

    Example

    He made the awkward turtle gesture to lighten the mood after his joke failed.

Origins of awkward

from Middle English 'awkeward', meaning 'in the wrong direction'

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Summary: awkward in Brief

The term 'awkward' [ˈɔːkwəd] refers to situations or things that cause difficulty or embarrassment. It can also describe someone or something that is not graceful or ungainly. Examples include spilling coffee on your boss or wearing mismatched shoes to work. Phrases like 'awkward silence' and 'awkward moment' denote uncomfortable or embarrassing moments, while 'awkward turtle' is a hand gesture used to break an awkward silence or moment.

How do native speakers use this expression?