bungled

Definition of bunglednext
past tense of bungle

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of bungled Though usually a very smooth operator, Latif has bungled the latest job for his handler Mike (Laith Nakli). Damon Wise, Deadline, 13 Sep. 2026 Citing a Pulitzer-winning New York Times investigation, the Republican argued Becerra bungled the handling of the influx of child migrants that lead thousands to be trafficked into dangerous jobs. Ben Paviour, Sacbee.com, 8 Sep. 2026 Sandusky has tried almost nonstop since his sentencing to have his June 22, 2012, conviction overturned, arguing first that his lawyers bungled the case. Andy Rose, CNN Money, 7 Sep. 2026 On Monday, a judge on Staten Island temporarily blocked the city from implementing the tax due to a lawsuit brought by a group of homeowners who allege the city bungled the rollout of the tax. Cbs New York Team, CBS News, 13 Aug. 2026 For now, the press still sometimes bungled his name as Harry. Eric Moskowitz, The Atlantic, 31 May 2026 Apollo’s acquisition came after Verizon Communications bought Yahoo’s online operations in 2017 and then bungled an attempt to blend those services into AOL, another internet pioneer. Michael Liedtke, Fortune, 29 Mar. 2026 Apollo's acquisition came after Verizon Communications bought Yahoo's online operations in 2017 and then bungled an attempt to blend those services into AOL, another internet pioneer. ABC News, 27 Mar. 2026 Isak’s actions were disrespectfully militant, but Newcastle damagingly bungled the situation. Chris Waugh, New York Times, 16 Mar. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bungled
Verb
  • On the fifth, Malik Washington fumbled after a 30-yard catch and run.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 14 Sep. 2026
  • For all of the anticipation of an explosive new offensive attack sparked by the arrival of new coordinator Mike McDaniel, the Chargers stumbled and fumbled their way through their season debut.
    Doug Haller, New York Times, 13 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • The Steelers also botched a field goal attempt and couldn’t take advantage of good field position by finishing drives with touchdowns.
    Josh Kendall, New York Times, 13 Sep. 2026
  • The tattoo has been arduous work for William, with setbacks and botched work taking up much of the past decade.
    Stephen Rodrick, Rolling Stone, 11 Sep. 2026
Verb
  • Georgia State wasn’t done, as running back Qwantavius Wiggins blew past the UCF defense, racing 78 yards for a touchdown and giving the Panthers their first lead of the game at 21-17.
    Matt Murschel, The Orlando Sentinel, 20 Sep. 2026
  • Smith, the shortest player in the FBS at 5-foot-5, fielded the ball at the 2 near the left sideline, faked a reverse handoff near the 10 before changing direction and blew past Cincinnati’s kick coverage team up the right sideline.
    ABC News, ABC News, 19 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Bungled.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bungled. Accessed 21 Sep. 2026.

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