What is awkward? Pronunciation and usage in English

awkward means . Learn how to pronounce and use awkward through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of awkward

awkwardadjective

/ˈɔːkwəd/
Definition & pronunciation of awkward

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "awkward." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word "awkward" has three syllables:

  • aw - like the "aw" in "saw"
  • kward - this is where it gets tricky!
  • -ard - like the "ard" in "yard"

2. The "kward" Part - The Key!

This is the most challenging part. Here’s how to approach it:

  • Start with a "k" sound: Think of the “k” in “kite.”
  • Add a slight "w" sound: Don't say "kw" like in "quick." It's a very subtle merging of the "k" and "w." Imagine almost a single sound, that’s a bit like a softened “kw.”
  • Think of a short “ah” sound: After the "kward" sound, you need a short, unstressed "ah" sound like in “car.”

3. Putting it Together - The Full Pronunciation:

The whole word is pronounced something like: “aw-kwərd”

Here's a breakdown of the sounds:

  • aw: /ɑː/ (like “father”)
  • kward: /kwərd/ (a soft, almost blended “kw” followed by a short “erd” sound – think of the “er” in “her”)
  • ard: /ɑrd/ (like “hard”)

Resources to Help You:

  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/awkward/ – This website lets you hear native speakers pronounce the word. Listen to several different voices to get a feel for it.
  • YouTube: Search on YouTube for "how to pronounce awkward" - you'll find tons of videos with visual and auditory breakdowns. Many pronunciation coaches demonstrate the merged "kw" sound.

Tips for Practicing:

  • Slow down: Don't rush when you’re learning.
  • Isolate the syllables: Practice each syllable separately before putting them together.
  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to how a native speaker says it. This helps you identify areas where you can improve.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a similar word to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word awkward in English

Let's break down how to use the word "awkward" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with a lot of nuances!

1. Core Meaning: Uncomfortable & Strange

At its most basic, "awkward" describes a situation, feeling, or interaction that is uncomfortable, strange, or clumsy. It suggests a lack of smoothness or grace.

2. Common Ways to Use It:

  • Describing Situations:

    • "The silence after the compliment was incredibly awkward." (A pause felt uncomfortable)
    • "I felt really awkward at the party – I didn't know anyone." (The social situation was uncomfortable)
    • "Their first date was pretty awkward; they kept stumbling over their words." (The interaction was clumsy)
    • “There was an awkward pause before he answered the question.”

  • Describing Feelings:

    • “I felt awkward when I realized I’d accidentally called my boss ‘Mom.’” (A feeling of discomfort)
    • “She felt awkward trying to compliment his new haircut.” (Feeling uneasy about social interaction)

  • Describing Physical Actions/Movements:

    • "He made an awkward move, tripping over his own feet." (A clumsy movement)
    • “She had an awkward posture.” (Uncomfortable or unnatural body position)

3. Figurative Uses (Expanding the Meaning):

  • Socially Unpleasant: “It was an awkward encounter with an ex.” (More than just clumsy, it implies a difficult or strained social interaction).
  • Disturbing or Unnatural: "The conversation took an awkward turn." (Suggesting the subject matter was uncomfortable or bizarre).

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Uncomfortable
  • Cringeworthy
  • Clumsy
  • Stilted
  • Unnatural
  • Embarrassing
  • Awkwardly

5. Examples in Sentences:

  • "The interview was awkward because I forgot my resume."
  • "He was trying to make small talk, but the conversation felt really awkward."
  • “She handled the situation with surprising grace, despite the awkward silence.”
  • “Despite his best efforts, the meeting remained awkward.”

6. Important Note: “Awkward” can be subjective. What one person finds awkward, another might not. It depends on context and individual sensibilities.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • In what context are you trying to use the word "awkward"? (e.g., are you writing a story, describing a situation, talking about a feeling?)
  • What kind of sentence are you trying to build? (e.g., a simple description, a more complex narrative?)

Synonyms for the word awkward

Practice with vocabulary awkward

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The silence between them was so ________ that neither knew what to say.
  2. Her explanation for being late was perfectly ________ and understandable.
  3. He felt ________ when he realized he had mispronounced the CEO’s name.
  4. The meeting went smoothly, and there was nothing ________ about the discussion.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which word best describes a situation where you feel uncomfortable or embarrassed?
    a) Awkward
    b) Confident
    c) Relaxed
    d) Uncertain

  2. Which of the following could describe a clumsy or uncoordinated movement?
    a) Graceful
    b) Awkward
    c) Smooth
    d) Efficient

  3. What could replace the word "uncomfortable" in this sentence: "The conversation took an uncomfortable turn"?
    a) Awkward
    b) Exciting
    c) Pleasant
    d) Predictable

  4. Which word means "to make something easier or simpler"?
    a) Complicate
    b) Awkward
    c) Streamline
    d) Hinder

  5. Which word fits best in this sentence: "The new furniture made the room feel ________"?
    a) Cozy
    b) Awkward
    c) Spacious
    d) Cluttered

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The pause in the conversation made everyone uncomfortable.
    Rewrite: The pause in the conversation created an ________ atmosphere.

  2. Original: He stumbled over his words during the presentation.
    Rewrite: His presentation was filled with ________ moments.

  3. Original: The layout of the room was inconvenient for the event.
    Rewrite: The layout of the room was ________ for the event.

Answers

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. awkward
  2. reasonable
  3. awkward
  4. awkward

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. a) Awkward
  2. b) Awkward
  3. a) Awkward
  4. c) Streamline
  5. b) Awkward

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The pause in the conversation created an awkward atmosphere.
  2. His presentation was filled with awkward moments.
  3. The layout of the room was unsuitable for the event.

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