a big embarrassment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a big embarrassment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or event that causes significant shame or discomfort. Example: "For the company, the product recall was a big embarrassment that affected their reputation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

You have given me a big embarrassment.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's a big embarrassment, and it is going to be expensive," he said.

The New York Times

Or a big embarrassment in front of a group of friends or colleagues?

The New York Times - Tech

That would be a big embarrassment, since tickets for games in all 12 stadiums have already been sold.

The Economist

"To me, it's a big embarrassment that the bastard was in this compound near the academy," said the Pakistani officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The New York Times

Counter-terrorism measures were a major focus of it.The daylight attack on such a high-profile target would thus have been a big embarrassment to local security officials.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

"It's a very big embarrassment when you have friends and family come over here," Paul says.

BBC

And if the documentary's maker, Louis Psihoyos, takes home the golden statue, it will be one big embarrassment for a nation that would like to be known for elegant tea ceremonies, stoic samurai, sumo wrestling and cool electronic gadgets rather than a home to porpoise butchers.

Forbes

"There's a growing awareness on all fronts that we're in for possibly a big national embarrassment at the end of the year" when predictions are that mandated bag-screening equipment will be so inadequate and unreliable that huge delays and airline schedule cutbacks will ensue, said Kevin M. Mitchell, the chairman of the Business Travel Coalition.

The New York Times

By a one-vote majority, the Los Angeles City Council approved $4 million today to bail out the local host committee for the Democratic National Convention here, assuring enough cash to begin building the stage at the Staples Center next month and avoiding a big political embarrassment for Mayor Richard J. Riordan.

The New York Times

Which would be a big political embarrassment for George Osborne and David Cameron, who have spent the past couple of years flaunting the AAA.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a big embarrassment" when you want to downplay the severity of a situation that causes discomfort or shame, conveying a sense of regret without being overly dramatic.

Common error

Avoid using "a big embarrassment" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can diminish its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Opt for varied synonyms like "a significant setback" or "a humiliating experience" to keep your language fresh and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big embarrassment" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies something as causing shame or awkwardness. Ludwig AI shows its frequent use in describing situations that negatively impact reputation or cause public discomfort.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big embarrassment" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe situations causing shame or discomfort. Ludwig AI's analysis indicates its primary usage in news and media contexts, conveying disapproval or concern. While generally neutral in register, consider formal alternatives like "a significant setback" in professional writing. Remember to avoid overuse and vary your language for impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a humiliating experience

Stronger emphasis on the feeling of humiliation and loss of dignity.

a major source of shame

Emphasizes the feeling of shame caused by the situation, rather than just the awkwardness.

a complete disgrace

Stronger and more judgmental, focusing on the moral failure or unacceptability.

a significant letdown

Focuses on the disappointment aspect, highlighting the failure to meet expectations.

a considerable setback

Highlights the hindrance or delay caused by the embarrassing situation.

a regrettable incident

Neutral and formal, focusing on the unfortunate nature of the event.

an awkward situation

Emphasizes the uncomfortable and clumsy aspect of the scenario.

a faux pas of epic proportions

Highlights the scale and social awkwardness of the mistake or blunder.

a public relations disaster

Focuses on the negative impact on reputation and public image.

an unfortunate occurrence

Neutral and understated, focusing on the bad luck or misfortune involved.

FAQs

How can I use "a big embarrassment" in a sentence?

You can use "a big embarrassment" to describe a situation causing shame or awkwardness. For example, "The product recall was "a big embarrassment" for the company."

What can I say instead of "a big embarrassment"?

Alternatives include "a major blunder", "a significant faux pas", or "a humiliating experience", depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "a big embarrassment" in formal writing?

While "a big embarrassment" is generally acceptable, consider using more formal alternatives like "a regrettable incident" or "a considerable setback" in highly formal contexts.

What's the difference between "a big embarrassment" and "a big mistake"?

"A big embarrassment" implies shame or awkwardness as a result of an action, while "a big mistake" simply refers to an error. The former focuses on the social consequence, the latter on the action itself.