tollpatschig
clumsy
So, dass man oft stolpert, Dinge fallen lässt oder aus Versehen etwas umstößt.
Definition & meaning
Tollpatschig means clumsy or awkward, especially in someone’s movements or handling of things. It can also describe a person who behaves awkwardly in social situations. The word often sounds affectionate or mildly humorous rather than harsh.
Grammar & Word origin
Tollpatschig is an adjective. Its forms include tollpatschiger (comparative) and am tollpatschigsten (superlative).
It is formed from the noun Tollpatsch (“a clumsy person”) and the adjective-forming suffix -ig . Despite its spelling, the word is not a combination of toll (“great” or “mad”) and “patchy.” Tollpatsch is generally traced to Hungarian talpas, a term for a foot soldier.
Synonyms & antonyms
- ungeschickt — “inept” or “clumsy”; a broad, neutral synonym that can refer to physical ability or skill.
- unbeholfen — “awkward” or “ungainly”; often emphasizes a lack of ease or confidence.
- tapsig — “clumsy” or “bumbling”; often has a similarly affectionate tone.
- linkisch — “awkward” or “ungainly”; can sound more critical and may describe social behavior, too.
Possible antonyms:
- geschickt — “skillful” or “dexterous.”
- gewandt — “adroit” or “agile,” including in social situations.
- behände — “nimble” or “quick and deft.”
Common phrases & collocations
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Examples
Er ist manchmal ziemlich tollpatschig.adjective
He is sometimes quite clumsy.
Meine tollpatschige Schwester stolpert oft über ihre Füße.adjective
My clumsy sister often trips over her own feet.
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