ungraceful expression

[/ʌnˈɡreɪsfəl ɪkˈsprɛʃən/]
nounpl: ungraceful expressions
expressão desajeitada
1. A manner of speaking, gesture, or facial display that lacks elegance, poise, or refinement; an awkward or clumsy way of communicating something
His ungraceful expression of gratitude made the situation even more uncomfortable.
Sua expressão desajeitada de gratidão tornou a situação ainda mais constrangedora.
2. A crude, rude, or impolite way of articulating thoughts or emotions
The politician's ungraceful expression of his opinion offended many supporters.
A expressão desajeitada da opinião do político ofendeu muitos apoiadores.
3. An awkward facial or bodily movement used to convey an emotion or message
Her ungraceful expression of joy seemed forced and unnatural.
Sua expressão desajeitada de alegria parecia forçada e antinatural.
In Brazilian culture, communication is often highly valued for its warmth and expressiveness. An 'ungraceful expression' may be forgiven if the underlying sentiment is genuine, whereas in more formal American contexts, such awkwardness might be viewed more negatively. The phrase reflects a distinction between intention and execution in social communication.
NYC Slang
rough around the edges way of saying something; ungraceful vibe
Synonyms / Sinônimos
awkward expressionclumsy gestureinelegant remarkcrude utteranceungainly display
Antonyms / Antônimos
graceful expressionelegant phraserefined gesturepoised mannereloquent speech

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
expressão desajeitada
Standard term used across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
expressão meio sem jeito
Colloquial variation emphasizing lack of style
São Paulo
expressão sem graça
More informal, direct reference to lack of grace
Portugal
expressão desastrada
Portuguese preference for 'desastrada' (clumsy) over 'desajeitada'

Related Words

gesturedemeanorcomportmentutterancearticulation

Related Idioms & Phrases

to put one's foot in one's mouth
to speak out of turn
lack of polish
rough edges
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