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unbeholfen

awkward, clumsy

adjective UN-be-hol-fen Rare

Also means

inept, helpless

Usage Note

Unbeholfen (literally 'not helped out') describes clumsy, awkward movement or handling — lacking skill or grace. Unbeholfen tanzen — to dance awkwardly. It often implies helplessness or inexperience rather than stupidity and can be endearing when used of children or novices.

Examples

"Er versuchte unbeholfen, das Paket zu öffnen."

Natural Translation

He tried clumsily to open the package.

Literal Translation

He tried awkwardly the package to open.

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