Meaning & Definition of Maladroit in English

Detailed Definitions

• Definition: lacking dexterity or skill in performing tasks.

  Example Sentence: His maladroit handling of the delicate situation led to more confusion.

• Definition: inept or clumsy in social situations.

  Example Sentence: She made a maladroit attempt at flirting that only embarrassed both of them.

Etymology

Origin: French 'maladroit', from 'mal-' meaning 'bad' + 'adroit' meaning 'skillful'.

Synonyms

Common Phrases and Expressions

• maladroit situation: a situation made awkward or difficult due to someone’s clumsiness.
• maladroit attempt: an effort that is clumsy or lacking skill.
• maladroit behavior: actions characterized by awkwardness or ineptness.

Translations

• Spanish: torpe

• French: maladroit

• German: ungeschickt

• Russian: неуклюжий

Related Words

• adroit: skillful and adept at handling situations.

• clumsiness: the quality of being clumsy; a lack of coordination.

Slang Meanings of maladroit

• Meaning: awkward turtle

  Example Sentence: He felt like an awkward turtle at the party, very maladroit in his interactions.

• Meaning: fumble

  Example Sentence: She fumbled through her speech, feeling quite maladroit in front of the audience.