as in clumsy
difficult to use or operate especially because of size, weight, or design even my five-year-old laptop seems clunky next to some of the really slim new models

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Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of clunky Rihanna dipped into the movement by choosing a collaboration pair with Simone Rocha, clunky and chunky, embellished with pearl and spike studs. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 15 Dec. 2024 Often, clunky interfaces, confusing processes, and poor communication transform potentially positive changes into productivity nightmares. Jorrit De Groot, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024 Some have posted photos of clunky grammar, factual mistakes on dates, and spelling errors in the lyrics of famous Swift songs. Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 4 Dec. 2024 While other wearable tech devices, like the Apple Watch, can be clunky or get in the way of other accessories, the Oura Ring is unobtrusive and comes in several colorways — from Black to Rose Gold — to fit with any style. Anna Tingley, Variety, 29 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for clunky 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for clunky
Adjective
  • In a moment when Liston was hurling a clumsy punch and his balance was susceptible, Ali threw what looked like a swiping right graze at his opponent’s head.
    Mikal Gilmore, Rolling Stone, 17 Jan. 2025
  • Even observers who think the outlook for China’s economy is less dire agree that its growth is slowing and will be constrained by structural challenges and a clumsy policymaking process.
    Jude Blanchette, Foreign Affairs, 7 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Though the two might have an awkward run-in in the Love Island All-Stars Villa.
    Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 13 Jan. 2025
  • Ribas’ hands and movement were much crisper than that of Dern, whose movement was awkward and punches were slower and wilder than those of her foe.
    Trent Reinsmith, Forbes, 12 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • These bring a bass-heavy sound and the convenience of wireless audio with up to 9 hours of battery life, 15 hours more in the charging case, and a sleek design that's not too cumbersome.
    Shubham Yewale, PCMAG, 13 Jan. 2025
  • Simply moving around as a Viking warrior is cumbersome, although its combat presents a brutality the series was missing in recent entries.
    John Mac Ghlionn, Newsweek, 13 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • As organizations strive to offer comprehensive solutions, the temptation to continuously add features can lead to unwieldy, complex products that ultimately dilute value for users.
    Ayesha Mahmood, Forbes, 9 Jan. 2025
  • At first, playing Tetris with your keyboard fingers while managing Minesweeper with your mouse hand can feel a little unwieldy—a bit like trying to drive a car and cook an omelet at the same time.
    Ars Technica, Ars Technica, 27 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near clunky

Cite this Entry

“Clunky.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/clunky. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

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