Somewhat embarrassing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Somewhat embarrassing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or feeling that is mildly uncomfortable or awkward. Example: "I found it somewhat embarrassing to trip in front of my colleagues during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is also somewhat embarrassing.

The Economist

Her hug was sticky and tight and somewhat embarrassing.

The New Yorker

This ad flattered her, even if she found it somewhat embarrassing.

The New York Times - Books

This is slightly more than somewhat embarrassing to the guy because his everloving might interfere with his drinking.

The New York Times - Sports

And today, when the governor's office released a pile of e-mails, it turned out to be somewhat embarrassing.

The New York Times

Sloan-Kettering has maintained that it is a private matter affecting Dr. Thompson, though the accusations have clearly been somewhat embarrassing for the prestigious Manhattan cancer center.

The New York Times

So it is somewhat embarrassing that as the European Union's Commissioner for Trade, he has presided over the imposition of punitive duties on a wave of Asian imports.

The Economist

It's somewhat embarrassing that we didn't look outward sooner, that foreign wars got less TV air time than the war against wrinkles.

The New York Times

In mid-June, however, there was a development that showed these assurances in a different light, somewhat embarrassing to the broadcasting industry.

The New Yorker

Joe DePlasco, the spokesman for the Green campaign, sought last night to present the confusing and somewhat embarrassing situation in the best possible light.

The New York Times

In fact, the report is somewhat embarrassing for the party, which criticized the opposition Democratic Party for suggesting during parliamentary elections last month that taxes must rise.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "somewhat embarrassing" to describe situations that cause a mild degree of shame, awkwardness, or discomfort, without being overly dramatic or severe. This phrase is suitable for contexts where the embarrassment is noticeable but not devastating.

Common error

Avoid using "somewhat embarrassing" when the situation is clearly very humiliating or traumatic. Choose stronger language to reflect the true intensity of the feeling in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "somewhat embarrassing" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, describing something that causes a mild degree of awkwardness or shame. Ludwig examples show its use in diverse contexts to temper the intensity of embarrassment.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "somewhat embarrassing" is a commonly used adjective phrase that indicates a mild degree of shame, awkwardness, or discomfort. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It is frequently found in News & Media sources. When using this phrase, ensure that the situation truly warrants a mild description, and avoid using it when a stronger term is more appropriate. Alternatives include "slightly awkward" or "a little humiliating", depending on the context. Overall, it's a useful phrase to temper negative feelings or soften potential criticism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Kind of embarrassing

An informal variation using "kind of" instead of "somewhat".

Slightly awkward

Emphasizes the awkwardness more directly than the original phrase.

A trifle embarrassing

Uses the word "trifle" to suggest a small degree of embarrassment.

A little humiliating

Conveys a stronger sense of embarrassment, bordering on humiliation.

Mildly mortifying

Highlights the feeling of shame or wounded pride.

Marginally embarrassing

Indicates that the embarrassment is present but only to a very limited degree.

Rather discomfiting

Focuses on the disturbance to one's comfort or composure.

Somewhat shameful

Directly indicates a feeling of shame or guilt.

A bit disconcerting

Implies a feeling of unease or unsettlement.

Slightly compromising

Suggests a situation that could damage one's reputation or integrity.

FAQs

How can I use "somewhat embarrassing" in a sentence?

You can use "somewhat embarrassing" to describe a situation or feeling that is mildly uncomfortable or awkward. For example, "I found it somewhat embarrassing to trip in front of my colleagues during the meeting."

What phrases can I use instead of "somewhat embarrassing"?

You can use alternatives like "slightly awkward", "a little humiliating", or "mildly mortifying" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a bit embarrassing" instead of "somewhat embarrassing"?

Yes, "a bit embarrassing" is a perfectly acceptable alternative to "somewhat embarrassing". Both phrases convey a similar level of mild embarrassment. The choice often depends on personal preference and the specific tone you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "somewhat embarrassing" and "very embarrassing"?

"Somewhat embarrassing" indicates a mild level of embarrassment, while "very embarrassing" suggests a much stronger feeling of shame or discomfort. Use "somewhat" for minor incidents and "very" for more significant or humiliating situations.