Maladroitly describes an action performed in a clumsy, awkward, or tactless manner. It suggests a lack of skill or dexterity, often resulting in unintended consequences or social faux pas. The term highlights a deficiency in handling situations, objects, or interactions with grace and precision. It implies a certain degree of ineptitude, either physical or social, where movements, words, or actions are poorly executed and may appear foolish or cause embarrassment. The word carries a connotation of clumsiness and social awkwardness that, without careful application, can describe a lack of etiquette and skill. Maladroitly is often used to emphasize the unintended negative impact of an action, highlighting the clumsiness rather than the intent of the actor.
Maladroitsly meaning with examples
- The waiter, balancing the tray, maladroitly spilled the entire contents of a bowl of soup onto the customer's lap. His awkward movements and clumsy handling of the tray resulted in a rather unpleasant start to the evening for the unfortunate diner. The restaurant manager quickly apologized and offered complimentary dry cleaning and another meal.
- Attempting to impress the CEO, the intern maladroitly fumbled with the presentation slides, causing a significant delay and leading to laughter from the more experienced members of the team. His clumsy maneuvering of the projector resulted in an awkward silence. He wished he could take back his performance.
- He maladroitly navigated the crowded dance floor, bumping into several people and stepping on numerous toes. His ungainly attempts at dancing, combined with his lack of awareness of his surroundings, created chaos and annoyed the other dancers. A very clumsy performance by an uncoordinated dancer.
- During the crucial negotiation, she maladroitly made a sarcastic remark, alienating the potential investors and jeopardizing the entire deal. Her poorly chosen words and lack of diplomatic skill turned what should have been a good meeting into an unproductive one. It left the room quiet and tense.
- Trying to open the stubborn jar, he maladroitly dropped it on the kitchen floor, shattering the glass and scattering its contents everywhere. His clumsy attempt at using brute force instead of finesse resulted in a huge mess and a cut finger. His frustration only made the situation worse.