170 Another Word for Gaffe? – Gaffe Synonyms & Antonyms

Want to say gaffe differently? Here are other words for gaffe and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.


Meaning of gaffe

A social or diplomatic blunder.

Etymology of gaffe

The word "gaffe" originated in the mid-19th century, borrowed from French, where it is a variant of "gaffier," meaning to seize or take, and ultimately from the Middle French word "gaffe," a boating term for a hook or a pole used to catch fish.
Historically, the term referred to a social or diplomatic blunder, often resulting from a thoughtless or careless action.

Synonyms

blunder mistake error faux pas slip lapse blooper boob botch bungle fumble stumble trip misstep mishap misjudgment miscalculation indiscretion impropriety solecism gaucherie awkwardness clumsiness tactlessness thoughtlessness carelessness negligence oversight omission fault flaw weakness vulnerability indisposition inattention distraction mistake misaction misbehavior misconduct mismanagement misdeed.

Definitions

  • A remark or action that is inconvenient, embarrassing, or tactless, especially one made in a social or professional setting.
  • An unintentional act or remark that causes embarrassment or offense.

Usage Examples

  • The politician's gaffe during the live debate cost him the election.
  • The company's CEO made a gaffe by announcing the wrong quarterly earnings.
  • The comedian's joke was a gaffe, offending many in the audience.

Antonyms

tact diplomacy finesse delicacy discretion thoughtfulness carefulness attention prudence wisdom acumen savvy shrewdness astuteness cleverness adroitness skill competence proficiency aptness fitness suitability correctness propriety decorum etiquette manners politeness courtesy consideration respect deference complaisance.

Related Adjectives

awkward clumsy tactless thoughtless careless negligent faulty flawed weak vulnerable embarrassing mortifying humiliating shameful flustering ruffling discomfiting disturbing perturbing upsetting perplexing puzzling confounding bewilderling inept incompetent ineffectual unskillful unapt unsuitable incorrect improper unseemly indecorous impolite rude discourteous.

Related Nouns

mistake error blunder faux pas slip lapse blooper boob botch bungle fumble stumble trip misstep mishap misjudgment miscalculation indiscretion impropriety solecism gaucherie awkwardness clumsiness tactlessness thoughtlessness carelessness negligence fault flaw weakness vulnerability.

Related Verbs

blunder err slip lapse bungle fumble stumble trip misjudge miscalculate offend embarrass mortify humiliate shame fluster ruffle discomfit discomfort disturb perturb upset flummox perplex puzzle confound bewilder.
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