Cumbersome

Cumbersome describes something that is difficult to handle or manage because of its size, weight, complexity, or numerous parts. It often implies inefficiency, inconvenience, or a lack of grace. The term can apply to physical objects, abstract processes, or even organizational structures. A cumbersome situation can involve significant effort or time to navigate or complete, presenting obstacles to smooth operation.

Cumbersome meaning with examples

• The archaeologist struggled to lift the cumbersome stone tablet, its weight making it difficult to maneuver through the narrow excavation site. Its bulk hampered their progress significantly.
• The new software, with its cumbersome interface and countless steps to complete simple tasks, frustrated the employees and slowed their productivity throughout the day, which brought about complaints.
• Navigating the cumbersome bureaucracy of the government required filling out dozens of forms and making numerous phone calls, leaving applicants feeling disheartened about the system.
• The knight's cumbersome armor restricted his movements during battle, hindering his agility and making him vulnerable to swift attacks from the quicker opponents encountered.
• Delivering the cumbersome packages across the city in a small vehicle proved a logistical nightmare, requiring multiple trips and creative maneuvering in rush hour traffic, eventually becoming overwhelming.