bitterly ashamed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bitterly ashamed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a deep sense of shame or regret about something one has done or experienced. Example: "After realizing the impact of his actions, he felt bitterly ashamed of how he had treated his friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

In my heart, I was bitterly ashamed.

The New Yorker

This was not the only mishap on set; during scenes shot at San Francisco Bay, Cesare Gravina got double pneumonia, making von Stroheim bitterly ashamed that Gravina's entire performance was later cut from the film, despite the actor's dedication to the role.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

When he says bitterly, "You ought to be ashamed," Big John replies: "Oh, I am.

The New York Times

"He bitterly regrets what he has done, he is utterly ashamed," said Mr Milliken-Smith.

BBC

They are bitterly divided.

The Economist

His parents separated bitterly.

The New York Times

He bitterly assailed Pres.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was bitterly disappointed.

The New York Times - Arts

Bitterly cold outside?

The New York Times - Travel

Residents protested bitterly.

The New York Times - Magazine

Then she laughed bitterly.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bitterly ashamed" to convey a strong sense of shame that is tinged with resentment or disappointment, often directed at oneself.

Common error

Avoid using "bitterly ashamed" in situations where a less intense phrase like "ashamed" or "very ashamed" would be more appropriate. The word "bitterly" adds a layer of intensity that is not always necessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bitterly ashamed" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a subject to describe a state of intense shame compounded with disappointment. As Ludwig AI explains, it expresses a deep sense of shame.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bitterly ashamed" is an adjectival phrase used to express a strong feeling of shame compounded with disappointment or resentment. As stated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English to express a deep sense of shame. While the phrase is not very common, it can be used in a variety of contexts, as shown by Ludwig. Consider alternatives such as "deeply ashamed" or "utterly mortified" to adjust the intensity or nuance of the emotion being conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deeply ashamed

This option is the most similar, replacing "bitterly" with "deeply" while preserving the core meaning.

incredibly ashamed

Uses a more common intensifier than "bitterly", making it slightly less formal.

thoroughly ashamed

Another option is thoroughly ashamed, which is pretty interchangeable.

utterly mortified

Suggests a stronger feeling of shame and humiliation, often in a social context.

deeply humiliated

Focuses more on the feeling of public embarrassment or loss of pride compared to "bitterly ashamed".

intensely remorseful

Highlights the feeling of regret and guilt about something done wrong, shifting the emphasis from shame to regret.

profoundly regretful

Similar to intensely remorseful, emphasizing deep regret and sorrow.

extremely chagrined

Implies a feeling of disappointment or frustration at having failed, rather than pure shame.

acutely embarrassed

Emphasizes the sharpness and intensity of the embarrassment felt.

extremely embarrassed

Replaces the emotion of shame with embarrassment, making it slightly different in connotation.

FAQs

What does "bitterly ashamed" mean?

The phrase "bitterly ashamed" expresses a strong feeling of shame mixed with disappointment or resentment. It suggests a deep and unpleasant emotional state.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "bitterly ashamed"?

Use "bitterly ashamed" when you want to emphasize the intensity of shame, often accompanied by a sense of self-reproach or regret. For example, after realizing the consequences of a mistake, someone might feel "bitterly ashamed" of their actions.

What are some alternatives to saying "bitterly ashamed"?

You can use alternatives like "deeply ashamed", "utterly mortified", or "intensely remorseful" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "bitterly ashamed" stronger than just "ashamed"?

Yes, "bitterly ashamed" is a stronger expression than simply "ashamed". The word "bitterly" intensifies the feeling of shame, suggesting a more profound and unpleasant emotional experience.