Word: Ham-fisted
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition: "Ham-fisted" describes someone who is clumsy or lacks skill, especially when using their hands. This term is often used when a person is awkward in performing tasks that require dexterity or precision.
Usage: You can use "ham-fisted" to describe a person’s physical actions or their approach to tasks that require a careful touch. It often implies that someone is heavy-handed or overly forceful.
Example Sentences: 1. The ham-fisted waiter spilled drinks all over the table. 2. His ham-fisted attempts at fixing the car only made the problem worse.
Advanced Usage: In a broader sense, "ham-fisted" can also describe actions or approaches that are clumsy or ineffectively handled, not just physical tasks. For example, a government policy that is poorly implemented might be described as "ham-fisted."
Word Variants: - Ham-handed: This is a synonym for "ham-fisted," and it carries the same meaning of clumsiness or lack of skill.
Different Meanings: While "ham-fisted" primarily refers to physical clumsiness, it can also suggest a lack of finesse in emotional or social situations. For instance, a ham-fisted apology would be one that is poorly expressed and lacks sincerity.
Synonyms: - Clumsy - Awkward - Bungling - Heavy-handed - Unskilled
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly relate to "ham-fisted," but you might encounter phrases like “to handle with kid gloves,” which suggests being careful and gentle, contrasting with the idea of being ham-fisted.
In summary, "ham-fisted" is a term that highlights a lack of skill or grace, especially in physical actions or in handling situations.