stumble

/ˈstʌmbəl/
verb
  1. To trip or lose your balance while walking or running.
    • The toddler stumbled but caught herself on the table.
    • He stumbled in the dark hallway because he couldn't see the step.
    • She stumbled over a loose rock on the path and nearly fell.
  2. To make a mistake or have difficulty while speaking, performing, or doing something.
    • She stumbled through the song, forgetting the lyrics halfway.
    • He stumbled on the math problem but eventually solved it.
    • The nervous speaker stumbled over his words during the presentation.
  3. To find or encounter something by chance or unexpectedly.
    • They stumbled across a hidden beach during their hike.
    • She stumbled into a great job opportunity at the career fair.
    • I stumbled upon an old photo album while cleaning the attic.
Antonyms
noun
  1. An act of tripping or losing balance.
    • His stumble on the stairs caused him to drop his books.
    • She recovered quickly from her stumble and continued walking.
    • A sudden stumble sent the runner crashing to the ground.
  2. A mistake or error, especially in speech or performance.
    • The actor's stumble during the monologue was barely noticeable.
    • Her only stumble in the interview was when she forgot the company's name.
    • A small stumble in the negotiation almost derailed the deal.