Meaning
Cumbersome is an adjective that describes something that is large, heavy, or complicated in a way that makes it difficult to carry, manage, or deal with. It often implies awkwardness, inefficiency, or inconvenience.
Grammar and Usage
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Part of speech: Adjective
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Used to describe objects, systems, procedures, or tasks that are awkward or difficult to handle.
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Sentence structure:
- "X is cumbersome."
- "The cumbersome + noun…"
Example: The cumbersome process discouraged many applicants.
Common Phrases
- cumbersome equipment – tools or devices that are heavy and difficult to carry.
- cumbersome process – a procedure that is overly complicated or slow.
- cumbersome system – an inefficient or awkward system.
Collocations
- cumbersome procedure
- cumbersome regulations
- cumbersome machinery
- cumbersome luggage
- cumbersome interface
Examples
- The old computer system was too cumbersome for everyday use.
- She had to carry a cumbersome suitcase up the stairs.
- The legal process can be cumbersome and time-consuming.
- His writing style is cumbersome and difficult to follow.
- Wearing such a cumbersome costume made it hard for him to move.
- The software update removed several cumbersome steps from the workflow.
- The regulations are so cumbersome that small businesses struggle to comply.
- The cumbersome helmet limited her visibility while climbing.
Synonyms or Related
- awkward
- unwieldy
- clumsy
- inefficient
- bulky
Antonym
- convenient
- handy
- efficient
- manageable