cause embarrassment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cause embarrassment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing actions or situations that lead to someone feeling embarrassed or ashamed. Example: "His comments during the meeting caused embarrassment for several team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

General Writing

Formal Communication

News Reporting

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To avoid being embarrassed avoid the things that can cause embarrassment e.g. Eating smelly foods, wearing tight clothing, doing an activity you know your not good at.

WikiHow

It was a signal the contents could cause embarrassment.

The New York Times

The rift has done more than just cause embarrassment.

The Economist

It's not only trains that can cause embarrassment.

The Guardian

There is nothing sensitive about this information, although its release might cause embarrassment to the government.

The Times

The bidet tends to cause embarrassment; the electronic push-button controls to confound.

The New York Times

"This looks like a ploy by opposition parties to cause embarrassment to the president".

The New York Times

"I don't want to cause embarrassment but I feel very strongly about this issue.

Independent

The rift between him and Mr Blatter does more than just cause embarrassment.

The Economist

It was not my intent to undermine anybody or cause embarrassment.

The New York Times

"I never intended to cause embarrassment, and I never intended to offend," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be aware of cultural differences and sensitivities. Actions that are acceptable in one culture may "cause embarrassment" in another. Research and understanding are key to respectful communication.

Common error

While "cause embarrassment" is widely understood, it might sound too informal in certain professional settings. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "lead to discomfort" or "create unease" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cause embarrassment" functions as a verb phrase, with "cause" acting as the main verb and "embarrassment" serving as the direct object. It describes the action of creating or producing a state of feeling ashamed or uncomfortable. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Wiki

12%

Science

12%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cause embarrassment" is a grammatically sound and commonly used verb phrase that describes the act of making someone feel awkward or ashamed. As stated by Ludwig AI, its widespread usage across various contexts, including news, academic writing, and general communication, highlights its versatility. While suitable for most situations, it's essential to consider the audience and context, opting for more formal alternatives in professional settings if needed. Remember to use mindful communication to avoid situations that could "cause embarrassment" to others. With numerous examples illustrating its use and several alternative phrases available, you can confidently and appropriately incorporate "cause embarrassment" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create awkwardness

Replaces "embarrassment" with a related concept, focusing on the feeling of unease.

lead to humiliation

Emphasizes a stronger negative outcome than simple embarrassment.

generate shame

Highlights the feeling of shame, a more intense emotion than embarrassment.

provoke awkward situations

Shifts focus to the situation created, rather than the direct emotional impact.

spark unease

Implies a subtle feeling of discomfort, less intense than embarrassment.

give rise to awkwardness

A more formal way to express the creation of an uncomfortable feeling.

be a source of shame

Focuses on the origin of the feeling of shame, rather than the act of causing it.

result in discomfiture

Uses a less common, more formal word for discomfort or embarrassment.

bring about chagrin

Employing a less common vocabulary with a similar meaning.

occasion chagrin

A slightly elevated diction is used, focusing on causing chagrin.

FAQs

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

You can use "cause embarrassment" to describe actions or situations that make someone feel ashamed or awkward. For example, "His inappropriate joke caused embarrassment for his colleagues."

What are some alternatives to "cause embarrassment"?

You can use alternatives like "create awkwardness", "lead to humiliation", or "generate shame" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "cause embarrassment" or "create embarrassment"?

Both "cause embarrassment" and "create embarrassment" are acceptable. "Cause embarrassment" is slightly more common, but "create embarrassment" is also grammatically correct and understandable.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "cause embarrassment"?

While generally acceptable, "cause embarrassment" might be too direct in very formal or sensitive contexts. Consider using softer alternatives like "provoke awkward situations" or "spark unease" in such cases.