onhandige

Onhandige is a Dutch adjective meaning awkward or unhandy. It is used to describe someone who lacks dexterity in handling objects or performing tasks, as well as things or situations that are difficult to use. The term can refer to physical clumsiness as well as social awkwardness, though in everyday language it often emphasizes practical ineptitude.

The base form is onhandig. In attributive position before a definite noun or in plural, the form commonly becomes onhandige (for example: de onhandige man, de onhandige gereedschappen, de onhandige situatie). In indefinite phrases or other syntactic contexts you may encounter onhandig or onhandige, depending on the noun and sentence structure.

Origin and related terms: Onhandig is formed from hand and the negating prefix on-, literally “not handy.” The noun onhandigheid denotes clumsiness or awkwardness, and the adverbial usage mirrors the adjective. A well-known lighthearted cliché is de onhandige Harry, used to describe an especially awkward person.

Usage and nuance: Onhandige is common in informal speech and writing to describe people who struggle with physical tasks—such as using tools or fitting objects—or who come across as socially awkward in practical situations. It can be used affectionately in self‑deprecating contexts or as a mild critique, depending on tone and intent. The term is generally less harsh than stronger insults for clumsiness and tends to convey a practical rather than moral flaw.

See also: Handigheid (the opposite), Onhandigheid, Klungelig.