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nounnounadjective

il goffo

clumsy

Definition & meaning

Goffo means clumsy, awkward, or ungainly. It can describe someone who moves without coordination, or an action that lacks grace or skill.

It can also describe behavior that is socially awkward, or something done in a crude or unconvincing way.

Grammar & Word origin

Goffo is an adjective. It agrees with the noun it describes:

  • Masculine: goffo (singular), goffi (plural)
  • Feminine: goffa (singular), goffe (plural)

Its origin is uncertain.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms

  • impacciato — awkward or self-conscious, often because of embarrassment.
  • maldestro — clumsy or unskillful, especially in performing an action.
  • sgraziato — lacking grace or elegance, particularly in movement or appearance.

Antonyms

  • agile — able to move quickly and easily.
  • disinvolto — confident and at ease, especially socially.
  • grazioso — graceful or pleasing in appearance or movement.

Common phrases & collocations

  • movimento goffo — a clumsy movement.
  • tentativo goffo — an awkward or unconvincing attempt.
  • sentirsi goffo — to feel awkward.

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Examples

Il bambino è goffo.adjective

The child is clumsy.

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