Gauche

Describing a person lacking social grace, tact, or the ability to behave appropriately in social situations; awkward or clumsy. This often manifests as a tendency to say or do the wrong thing, leading to embarrassment or discomfort for both the individual and those around them. It suggests an insensitivity to social cues and a failure to navigate social interactions smoothly. The behaviour can stem from a lack of experience, self-consciousness, or simply a misunderstanding of acceptable conduct.

Gauche meaning with examples

• During the formal dinner, his loud slurping of soup and inappropriate jokes at the head table made him seem incredibly gauche, and he clearly wasn't aware of how uncomfortable he made the other guests.
• He felt gauche when entering the sophisticated art gallery, unsure of how to act or what to say, his casual attire and unrefined manners contrasting sharply with the refined atmosphere of the room.
• Her attempts at flirting were often considered gauche, as she'd blurt out personal questions and make awkward, unwelcome physical advances, making her social interactions largely unsuccessful.
• The politician's gauche attempt to connect with the working class involved using outdated slang and exaggerated gestures, which ultimately backfired and alienated the very demographic he aimed to appeal to.