Definition: struggling for effect
Usage: agonistic poses
Similar words: affected, unnatural
Definition: speaking or behaving in an artificial way to make an impression
Synonyms: constrained, forced, strained
Definition: lacking spontaneity; not natural
Usage: a constrained smile; forced heartiness; a strained smile
Similar words: affected, unnatural
Definition: speaking or behaving in an artificial way to make an impression
Synonyms: strained, labored, laboured
Definition: lacking natural ease
Usage: a labored style of debating
Similar words: awkward
Definition: lacking grace or skill in manner or movement or performance
Usage: an awkward dancer; an awkward gesture; too awkward with a needle to make her own clothes; his clumsy fingers produced an awkward knot
Synonyms: strained
Definition: showing signs of mental and emotional tension
Usage: her voice was strained as she asked the question
Similar words: tense
Definition: in or of a state of physical or nervous tension