# ungraceful

/ənˈɡɹeɪsfəl/ (US) · /ʌnɡɹˈeɪsfəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ungraceful
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

moving in a way that is not smooth or elegant. You use this to describe someone who is clumsy or lacks balance.

For teachers: lacking elegance, smoothness, or coordination in movement or form. Often used to describe physical movements that appear awkward or clumsy.

## Examples

- He made an ungraceful landing on the grass.
- The dancer's ungraceful stumble during the final act was a surprising departure from her usual precision.
- The transition from a command economy to a market-based one was ungraceful, marked by sudden price spikes and administrative confusion.

## Synonyms

clumsy, awkward, ungainly, graceless

## Antonyms

graceful, elegant, smooth

## Usage notes

- Typically used to describe physical movement, but can metaphorically describe social interactions or transitions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.