What term describes someone who is lacking in skill and may appear clumsy?

The term that accurately describes someone who is lacking in skill and may appear clumsy is "inept." This word conveys a sense of incompetence or inability to handle tasks effectively. When someone is referred to as inept, it often implies not just a lack of skill but also an awkwardness in executing actions, resulting in a clumsy appearance. This distinctive quality of ineptitude captures the essence of both lack of skill and a somewhat ungraceful demeanor.

In contrast, the other terms have different connotations. "Clumsy" specifically refers to physical awkwardness and can be seen as a narrower term than inept. "Skillful" denotes a high level of proficiency, while "adept" suggests a level of expertise; thus, these two options are opposite in meaning to what the question describes.