Clunky
/ˈklʌŋki/
adjectiveB2
Definition
Clunky means something that feels or looks awkward, heavy, or not easy to use. It often describes objects or machines that are not smooth or stylish. When something is clunky, it can be uncomfortable or difficult to handle.
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⚡ See It in Action
Describes something large, heavy, and awkward to use or move
- •The old laptop was clunky and slow compared to new models.
- •She wore clunky boots that made a lot of noise when she walked.
- •The clunky design of the machine made it hard to operate.
Describes something that is not smooth or elegant in function or appearance
- •The software interface was clunky and confusing for new users.
- •His clunky speech made it hard to understand his point.
🧲 Make It Stick
- ✓Think of 'clunky' like 'big,' but with extra meaning that it is also awkward or hard to move
- ✓Picture a big, old computer or phone that feels heavy and slow to use
- ✓It's the feeling when you try to wear shoes that are too big and they make loud, heavy steps
- ✓Sounds like 'clunk' → imagine a heavy object falling and making a loud, heavy noise
- ✓Remember old cars or old phones that look and feel bulky, not smooth or modern
- ✓NOT like 'light' (easy to carry and smooth), clunky is heavy and awkward
- ✓NOT like 'fast' or 'efficient,' clunky things work slowly or with difficulty
- ✓NOT like 'beautiful,' clunky things often look rough or not stylish
🔄 Try Other Words
- •Awkward: difficult to use or handle (Use when focusing on difficulty or lack of grace)
- •Bulky: large and hard to carry (Use when emphasizing size more than weight or function)
- •Unwieldy: hard to manage or control (Use in formal contexts for things difficult to move or use)
- •Inefficient: not working well or smoothly (Use when focusing on poor function rather than size or weight)
🔍 Unboxing
- •Word parts: (no clear prefix or suffix, 'clunk' + '-y' (adjective suffix meaning 'having the quality of clunk'))
- •Etymology: 'clunk' is an English word from the 20th century meaning a heavy dull sound; '-y' makes it an adjective describing something like a clunk
- •Historical development: 'clunky' appeared in the mid-1900s to describe things that make clunk sounds or feel heavy and awkward
- •Modern usage: Used often to describe technology, machines, or objects that are awkward, heavy, or not smooth
💭 Reflect & Connect
•What kinds of objects or machines have you seen that could be called clunky? How did they make you feel when using them?
•Can something be clunky but still useful? When might clunkiness be acceptable or even good?
Fill in the blanks with the correct word:
1.The old phone was clunky because it was ___ and ___ to hold for a long time.
2.When software is clunky, users often feel ___ and find it ___ to complete tasks.
3.Clunky shoes usually make a ___ noise and can be ___ to walk in.
4.Unlike modern designs, clunky objects often lack ___ and feel ___.
5.Sometimes clunky machines work well but look ___ and feel ___.
6.People avoid clunky tools because they are ___ and ___ to use.
7.The car’s clunky engine made loud ___ sounds and was ___ to start.