fumble
word
Definition
To handle something in a clumsy or awkward way, often dropping or losing control of it. It can also mean to hesitate or make mistakes when speaking or acting.
Usage & Nuances
'Fumble' is often used for physical actions (like dropping keys) but also for awkward speech or mistakes in sports (like football). Common collocations: 'fumble for' (searching clumsily), 'fumble the ball' (sports). It is informal and suggests lack of confidence or coordination.
Spanish: tantear - torpemente manipular - perder el control (de algo)Portuguese (BR): titubear - manusear desajeitadamente - deixar cair (acidentalmente)Portuguese (PT): titubear - manusear desajeitadamente - deixar cair (acidentalmente)Chinese (Simplified): 笨拙地摸索 - 笨手笨脚地弄丢Chinese (Traditional): 笨拙地摸索 - 笨手笨腳地弄丟Hindi: घबराहट में हाथ-पैर मारना - कुछ गिरा देनाArabic: يتلمس - يعبث - يفقد السيطرة (على شيء)
Example Sentences
He fumbled with his keys at the door.
basic
She dropped her phone when she fumbled for it.
basic
The player fumbled the ball and lost the game.
basic
I always fumble my words when I'm nervous.
natural
Don’t fumble around—just say what you mean.
natural
He fumbled through his bag, trying to find his wallet.
natural