Word
clunky
US/ˈkɫəŋki/
UK/klˈʌŋki/
Informal
Definition
adj. describing something that is heavy, awkward, or difficult to use. You use this for things that feel slow or not very smooth.
adj. characterised by a heavy, awkward, or inelegant quality. Often used to describe physical objects or digital interfaces that feel slow or difficult to operate.
Examples
“The old computer is very clunky and slow.”
“The new software update made the interface feel clunky and confusing for first-time users.”
“While the design was technically sound, the clunky hardware made the device feel outdated compared to the sleek, modern competitors on the market.”
Examples
simple
“The old computer is very clunky and slow.”
contextual
“The new software update made the interface feel clunky and confusing for first-time users.”
complex
“While the design was technically sound, the clunky hardware made the device feel outdated compared to the sleek, modern competitors on the market.”
Real-World Examples
“Patrick Dorgu is viewed as more of a winger by Michael Carrick while Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui are clunky fits on the left side of defence.” “Madjo’s clunky control allowed Vitinha to claim the ball and locate Doué.” Etymology
From clunk + -y.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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