flounder

• Ein Plattfisch, der in Küstengewässern lebt; im übertragenen Sinne auch ein schwerfälliger Mensch, der Fehler macht.

A noun referring to a type of flatfish found in coastal waters, or a verb meaning to struggle or move clumsily. As a noun, it denotes the fish itself.

1. Type of fishB1formal

   A flatfish found in coastal waters, often used as food.

   Flunder

   • We ordered grilled flounder for dinner.
   • The fisherman caught a large flounder near the shore.
   • Flounder is a popular dish in many coastal restaurants.

   Synonymefluke

• Verb, das das ungeschickte Kämpfen oder Strampeln beschreibt, oft in Wasser, Schlamm oder in einer schwierigen Situation; auch sich verheddern, ins Stocken geraten oder große Schwierigkeiten haben.

A verb used to describe struggling or moving clumsily, often in a difficult situation or in water or mud.

1. Struggle or move clumsilyB2formal

   To move with difficulty, often in water, mud, or snow, making clumsy or desperate movements.

   Strampeln, sich schwerfällig bewegen

   • The swimmer floundered in the rough waves before being rescued.
   • The deer floundered in the deep snow.
   • He floundered through the muddy field, trying to keep his balance.

   Synonymeblunderfumblegropelurchstaggerstrugglestumblethrashtumblewallow

2. Struggle mentally or verballyB2formal

   To have difficulty thinking, speaking, or acting clearly; to be confused or uncertain.

   Ins Stocken geraten

   • When asked the difficult question, she floundered for an answer.
   • The politician floundered during the debate, unable to defend his position.
   • He floundered through his speech, forgetting his lines.

   Synonymeblunderfumblemuddlestrugglestumble

   Antonymearticulatecomprehendgraspunderstand

3. Fail or be in troubleC1informal

   To be in serious trouble or to fail, especially in business or a plan.

   Scheitern

   • The company floundered after the CEO resigned.
   • Their relationship floundered due to constant arguments.
   • The project floundered because of a lack of funding.

   Synonymebackfirefailflopfoundergo wrongmiscarrystruggle

   Antonymeprospersucceedthrive