awkward · adjective /ˈɔː.kwərd/
awkward (DIFFICULT)
B2 difficult or causing problems
Dictionary examples:
an awkward shape
Some of the questions were awkward.
The large box was awkward to carry.
awkward (EMBARRASSING)
B2 embarrassing and not relaxed
Dictionary examples:
an awkward situation
She's put me in quite an awkward position.
There was an awkward silence.
They'd chosen an awkward time to call as I was just about to leave.
Learner example:
Not a movement, not a voice, just an awkward silence. (First Certificate in English; B2; Spanish)
awkward (WITHOUT BEAUTY)
C2 without beauty, ease, and skill when moving
Dictionary example:
He’s too awkward – he’ll never be a good dancer.
Learner example:
Piggy's "value" is not apparent to the boys because it is concealed by the sight of his awkward self: he is plump, he wears thick spectacles, he is not gifted with good health. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Italian)
