a source of shame

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of shame" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that causes feelings of embarrassment or guilt. Example: "For many, their past mistakes can become a source of shame that hinders personal growth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That should be a source of shame.

The Guardian - Opinion

To be Jewish, then, was not a source of shame.

The New Yorker

Masturbating should not be a source of shame.

The Guardian - Opinion

Gone are the days, it seems, when the veggie burger was almost a source of shame.

The New York Times - Food

Before hip-hop, living in the projects had been a source of shame.

The New Yorker

Their sexuality is viewed as a source of shame and is bound with family honour.

The Guardian

Mary Cheney's sexual orientation is no secret, nor should it be a source of shame.

The New York Times

It's when the clinging thin-knit sweater you thought was suave becomes a source of shame.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Stuart Gulliver, the C.E.O. of H.S.B.C., acknowledged that the list had become "a source of shame".

The New Yorker

Atkinson described the practice as a "source of shame to the education system".

The Guardian

Because gay men have long been stigmatised, the voice is often a source of shame.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a source of shame", consider the intensity of the emotion you want to convey. If the shame is particularly strong, you might opt for alternatives like "a disgrace" or "a source of mortification".

Common error

Be careful not to assign shame inappropriately. Ensure that the subject genuinely warrants feelings of shame, rather than simply discomfort or disagreement. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of shame" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies something that evokes feelings of disgrace, humiliation, or deep regret. The Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in describing things that cause these emotions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Unknown

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a source of shame" is a commonly used noun phrase to describe something that causes feelings of disgrace or humiliation. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage, indicating it effectively conveys a negative sentiment. While grammatically sound and widely accepted, it's important to use this phrase thoughtfully, ensuring the context genuinely warrants such a strong emotion. Alternatives like "an embarrassment" or "a disgrace" may be more appropriate depending on the intensity of the feeling. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it maintains a neutral register and serves to highlight negative situations that cause deep regret.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

something to be ashamed of

Directly expresses the feeling of shame associated with something.

a disgrace

Emphasizes the loss of respect or honor.

an embarrassment

Focuses on the feeling of awkwardness or humiliation caused.

a stigma

Refers to a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.

a matter of humiliation

Specifically points to the act or situation that lowers one's dignity.

a cause for regret

Highlights the feeling of wishing things had been different.

a source of mortification

Emphasizes the intensity of shame and embarrassment.

a blot on one's reputation

Indicates something that damages someone's good name or standing.

an object of scorn

Highlights how something is viewed with contempt or disdain.

a stain on one's character

Implies a lasting negative impact on someone's moral qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "a source of shame" in a sentence?

You can use "a source of shame" to describe something that causes embarrassment or humiliation. For example, "The scandal became "a source of shame" for the entire community."

What are some alternatives to saying "a source of shame"?

Alternatives include "an embarrassment", "a disgrace", or "a cause for regret", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "a source of shame"?

No, it's important to use the phrase thoughtfully. It should only be used when the situation genuinely warrants feelings of deep embarrassment or humiliation. Overusing it can diminish its impact.

What's the difference between "a source of shame" and "a source of embarrassment"?

"A source of shame" implies a deeper sense of wrongdoing or moral failing, while "a source of embarrassment" suggests a more superficial feeling of awkwardness or discomfort. Shame is generally a stronger emotion than embarrassment.