awkward steps
[/ˈɔːkwərd stɛps/]
noun phrase
passos desajeitados
1. movements of the feet and legs that lack grace, coordination, or confidence; clumsy or ungainly movements while walking
The child took awkward steps across the icy sidewalk, trying not to fall.
A criança dava passos desajeitados pela calçada gelada, tentando não cair.
2. tentative or hesitant movements, often indicating nervousness, uncertainty, or unfamiliarity with a situation
He took awkward steps into the unfamiliar room, unsure of where to sit.
Ele dava passos desajeitados para dentro da sala desconhecida, incerto de onde sentar.
3. movements that seem unnatural or out of place in a particular context
The robot took awkward steps as it was still being calibrated.
O robô dava passos desajeitados enquanto ainda estava sendo calibrado.
In both American and Brazilian contexts, 'awkward steps' is frequently used metaphorically to describe the early stages of learning something new, entering unfamiliar social situations, or taking initial actions toward change. In Brazil, this phrase often appears in coaching and self-help contexts when discussing personal development or overcoming uncertainty.
NYC Slang
clumsy moves; stumbling around
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