Definition of clumsily

clumsilyadverb

vụng về

/ˈklʌmzɪli//ˈklʌmzɪli/

The word "clumsily" has a fascinating origin. It comes from the Old English word "clumsig," which means "stumbling" or "lumbering." This word is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*klumiz," which is also the source of the Modern English word "clumsy." The Proto-Germanic word is thought to be derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*kleu-" which means "to bend" or "to twist." The word "clumsily" has been in use since the 14th century, initially to describe someone or something that moves awkwardly or carelessly. Over time, the word's meaning expanded to include adverbs like "unskilfully" or "ineptly." Today, "clumsily" is often used to describe actions or behavior that are awkward, inelegant, or uncoordinated. Despite its potentially negative connotations, "clumsily" remains a useful word in the English language, helping us to describe human fallibility and imperfection.

namespace

in a way that is not smooth or steady or careful

theo cách không trơn tru, không ổn định hoặc không cẩn thận

Example:
  • She stumbled clumsily down the dark hallway.

    Cô ấy loạng choạng bước đi trên hành lang tối tăm.

without skill or in a way that offends people

không có kỹ năng hoặc theo cách xúc phạm đến mọi người

Example:
  • The novel's several flashbacks are clumsily handled.

    Nhiều cảnh hồi tưởng trong tiểu thuyết được xử lý một cách vụng về.

Related words and phrases