Unwieldiness is a challenging word to spell due to its multiple vowels and consonants that can be confusing. The correct pronunciation of this word is /ʌnˈwiːldiːnəs/, with the first syllable rhyming with "sun" and the second syllable pronounced like "wee." The word's "-ness" suffix is straightforward, but the "-wieldi-" part can be tricky. It contains the letter "ei" but is pronounced as "i," which adds to the unwieldiness of the spelling. Overall, this word demands attention and effort to spell and pronounce accurately.
Unwieldiness refers to the quality or state of being difficult to handle, manage, or control due to its size, shape, or complexity. It describes something that lacks ease, convenience, or practicality in its structure or design, impeding efficient use or movement. The term is often used to depict objects, tools, systems, or situations that are awkward, ungainly, or cumbersome to operate or work with.
When referring to physical objects, unwieldiness highlights their large or ungainly size, rendering them challenging to maneuver or manipulate. This can include objects such as heavy machinery, oversized furniture, or cumbersome devices that require substantial strength or effort to operate effectively. Additionally, it can describe something that is impractical or inconvenient due to its complex or intricate design, making it laborious or time-consuming to use.
Unwieldiness can also extend beyond physical objects, involving abstract concepts such as bureaucratic procedures or organizational structures that prove excessively convoluted, hindering efficiency and effectiveness. This can pertain to convoluted administrative systems, complicated set of rules or regulations, or intricate decision-making processes that slow down progress or create unnecessary barriers.
Overall, unwieldiness describes anything that poses difficulty, inefficiency, or hindrance due to its cumbersome nature, making it challenging to handle, operate, or manage smoothly.
Difficulty of being moved.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "unwieldiness" is derived from the adjective "unwieldy", which in turn comes from the Old English term "unwieldig". "Unwieldig" was a combination of the prefix "un-" meaning "not" or "lacking" and "wield", which referred to having control or mastery over something. The Old English term "wield" was related to the noun "weald", meaning "power" or "control". Over time, "unwieldig" evolved into "unwieldy", and the suffix "-ness" was added to form the noun "unwieldiness", which means the state or quality of being difficult to handle or manage.