Word of the Day: Stumble
What's the story
The word "stumble" is primarily a verb, meaning to trip or lose balance while walking, often causing a temporary loss of stability.
It can also mean to make an error, falter, or experience difficulty when speaking or performing a task.
As a noun, "stumble" refers to the act of tripping or a minor mistake.
Origin
Origin of the word
The word "stumble" originates from the Old English word stumbian, meaning "to trip or fall."
Over time, it evolved into Middle English as stumblen, maintaining the same meaning.
It has retained its usage to describe both physical and metaphorical faltering or error in modern language
Synonyms
Synonyms for 'stumble'
Some common synonyms for "stumble" include trip, falter, totter, lurch, slip, misstep, and blunder.
These words convey the idea of losing balance or making an error, either physically or in terms of performance.
They can also describe a moment of uncertainty or difficulty.
Usage
Sentence usage
Let's see how "stumble" can be used in sentences:
"She 'stumbled' over her words during the presentation."
"As he hurried down the stairs, he 'stumbled' and almost fell."
"He didn't let the first 'stumble' in his career stop him from trying again."
"The team 'stumbled' upon an unexpected solution while brainstorming."
Conversations
Why use the word
Using "stumble" in your vocabulary helps you describe movement, mistakes, or challenges more clearly.
It adds depth to your language, whether you're talking about tripping physically or facing difficulties in tasks or conversations.
"Stumble" makes your descriptions more vivid and easier to understand.