1.
clumsy; not dexterous
Lacking physical coordination or manual skill. Unable to perform tasks requiring fine motor skills well.
私は不器用だから、料理が苦手だ。
I'm clumsy, so I'm not good at cooking.
不器用ながらも一生懸命やっている。
I may be clumsy, but I'm doing my best.
2.
awkward; tactless; inept (with people/emotions)
Unable to express oneself well or handle social situations smoothly. Often used about one's inability to show feelings or communicate effectively.
彼は不器用で、うまく気持ちを伝えられない。
He's awkward and can't express his feelings well.
不器用ながらも一生懸命やっている。
I may be clumsy, but I'm doing my best.
TWO MAIN MEANINGS:
1) PHYSICAL: Not good with one's hands
- 手先が不器用 (clumsy with one's hands)
- 不器用な手つき (clumsy movements)
2) EMOTIONAL/SOCIAL: Unable to express feelings or navigate relationships smoothly
- 生き方が不器用 (clumsy at life)
- 愛情表現が不器用 (bad at showing affection)
COMMON EXPRESSIONS:
- 不器用な人 (a clumsy/awkward person)
- 不器用ながらも (though clumsy, nevertheless...)
NUANCE:
Often used with a sense of sympathy or endearment. A 不器用 person who tries hard can be seen as admirable.
CONTRAST:
- 不器用 ↔ 器用 (clumsy ↔ dexterous/skillful)
Related Words
Antonym:
器用 (skillful)