Definition

Describing something that has been done in a careless or ineffective way, often resulting in mistakes or problems.

Example

The project was bungled due to poor planning and lack of communication.

Conversation

Did you see how they handled the project presentation?

Yeah, it was really bungled — they forgot half the slides!

I can't believe they didn't prepare better for it.

Right? It makes you wonder how they thought it would go well.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To carry out a task clumsily or ineptly, resulting in failure or mistakes.

Example

He bungled the presentation by forgetting his notes and mixing up the slides.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the project?

Yeah, I heard it was bungled pretty badly.

That's such a shame because we were counting on it.

Root Explanation

Bungled → It originates from the verb 'bungle' (from the 19th century, possibly derived from the dialectal 'bung' meaning to botch or mishandle). The suffix '-ed' indicates the past tense. The word 'bungled' means to have done something clumsily or ineptly, resulting in a failure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bungle' as a way to remember that 'bungled' means something was done clumsily or mishandled.

Visually Confused Words