Definition

In a way that is clumsy or awkward, often resulting in mistakes or difficulties.

Example

He handled the situation maladroitly, making it worse instead of better.

Conversation

Did you see how he handled that situation yesterday?

Yeah, it was a bit awkward, he did it so maladroitly.

I felt bad for him; he really didn't mean to mess up.

True, everyone has those moments sometimes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Maladroitly → It is formed from "mal-" (meaning bad or poorly) and "adroit" (from Old French *adroit*, meaning skilled or dexterous) with the adverbial suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner). The word "maladroitly" means in a manner that is clumsy or lacking skill.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mal-' meaning bad and 'adroit' meaning skilled — so when someone acts maladroitly, they are acting in a bad or clumsy manner.

Visually Confused Words