bungle
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈbʌŋɡl/
KK: /ˈbʌŋɡl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To do something in a clumsy or careless way, resulting in mistakes or failures.
Example
He bungled the presentation by forgetting important details.
Tense Forms
Past: bungled
Past Participle: bungled
Conversation
I can't believe how much I bungle things when I'm nervous.
It's totally normal! Everyone has those moments.
Yeah, but it always seems to happen at the worst times.
Just remember, it's okay to make mistakes; we all learn from them.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
blunder
fumble
mishandle
Antonyms
succeed
manage
execute
noun
Definition
A mistake or failure that happens because of clumsiness or incompetence.
Example
The project was a complete bungle due to poor planning.
Conversation
Did you hear about the presentation yesterday?
Yeah, I heard it was a complete bungle.
I can't believe they messed it up so badly.
transitive verb
Definition
To do something in a clumsy or careless way, resulting in mistakes or failures.
Example
He bungled the presentation by forgetting important details.
Tense Forms
Past: bungled
Past Participle: bungled
Conversation
I really bungle everything when I'm in a rush.
Yeah, I’ve seen that happen before!
I just wish I could handle things better and not bungle them up.
Root Explanation
Bungle → This word originates from the Scottish dialect, possibly from the word 'bung' (meaning to do clumsily or awkwardly). It describes the act of doing something in a clumsy or incompetent manner.
Memory Tip
Think of someone doing something 'clumsily' — that's why bungle means to mess something up.
Visually Confused Words
bugle
unglue
unglee
pungle
jungle
burgle
bundle
buglet