Maladroit
Adjective
Definition: Lacking skill or dexterity; clumsy or inept.
Synonyms: Awkward, Bungling, Unskilled
Antonyms: Skilled, Adept, Graceful
- He was so maladroit that he tripped over his own feet.
- Her maladroit attempt at juggling resulted in things crashing to the floor.
- "Maladroit" can be thought of as "mal" (meaning "bad") + "adroit" (meaning "skillful"), so it refers to being "badly skillful" or clumsy in a negative way.
- Think of someone trying to dance but constantly stepping on their partner's feet, representing a lack of grace and coordination.
Etymology:
The word "maladroit" originated from the Old French term "maladreit," which combines "mal" (meaning "bad" or "evil") and "adroit" (meaning "skillful" or "dexterous"). It entered the English language around the early 18th century.
Historical Usage:"Maladroit" has been used to describe someone lacking skill or clumsiness since its introduction in the English language.
Related Idioms:
"An example of maladroit in action"
Explanation:Used to refer to a situation or action that clearly demonstrates a lack of skill or clumsiness.
Misconceptions:
Some may mistake "maladroit" to simply mean "awkward" without considering the lack of skill or coordination implied.
Explanation:While "maladroit" can be synonymous with "awkward" in some contexts, it specifically emphasizes a lack of skill or proficiency in performing a task rather than just social clumsiness.