awkward

Everyday

1. Awkward means uncomfortable or embarrassing, when you don't know what to say or do. tree →
2. Awkward means clumsy, moving in a way that is not smooth. tree →
3. Awkward means hard to use, carry or deal with, because of its shape or situation. tree →
4. An awkward person is hard to get along with. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and in feelings lessons, children talk about awkward moments, like meeting someone new or a long silence. In stories, awkward shows embarrassment or clumsiness. Phrases: an awkward silence, feel awkward, an awkward shape, awkward to carry.

Examples

• There was an awkward silence after the joke. tree →
• I felt awkward when I forgot her name. tree →
• The box was an awkward shape to carry. tree →
• The baby giraffe took awkward steps. tree →
• It is awkward to write with your other hand. tree →
• Meeting new people can feel awkward at first. tree →
• Sorry, it's an awkward time; can you call back later? tree →
• He gave an awkward little wave. tree →
• That seemed to be everything, and an awkward pause followed. tree →

Note

Spelling trap: awkward has two w's: a-w-k-w-a-r-d. Adverb: awkwardly; noun: awkwardness. Use an: an awkward moment. Feeling awkward is normal and passes; a kind smile helps.