Words / C1

KUMB-uh-s-uh-m/ˈkʌmbəsəm/

Cumbersome means large, heavy, or complicated and therefore difficult to use: a cumbersome system, a cumbersome box. Awkward is everyday and close; unwieldy is a close synonym; clumsy often describes people. In speech, a faff or too bulky is enough. Use it for objects and procedures that get in the way — not for a difficult idea that is still elegant.

Meaning

Large, heavy, or complicated and therefore difficult to use.

Examples

• “The old registration system was cumbersome.”
• “The old registration system was cumbersome: five screens for one address.”
• “The folder is comprehensive and too cumbersome to carry to every class.”

Good to know

Awkwardly heavy or over-complicated. Everyday: bulky / a faff. Close: unwieldy. Of objects and systems, not of a subtle argument.

Near in meaning

unwieldy

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