embarrassment

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'embarrassment' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a feeling of humiliation, shame, or awkwardness. Example sentence: His rampant bragging was a source of embarrassment for his friends.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Opinion

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's an embarrassment.

The Guardian

They, in turn, were so convulsed with embarrassment and laughter at these antics that they could hardly get their words out.

The Guardian

"Instead of lobbying its way out of embarrassment, the Abbott government should actually do what the World Heritage Committee has asked to save the Reef from an 'in danger' listing," Waters said.

The Guardian

Now comes a serious embarrassment: the intellectual support Osborne claimed for such rapid cuts has just been kicked away.

The Guardian - Opinion

Second, my hard-bitten journalistic instincts were immediately replaced by full-scale embarrassment about walking around a supermarket filming things like some sort of obnoxious oaf.

The Guardian

The embarrassment at having to explain to a child why in among the words there were naked ladies.

The Guardian - Opinion

Chad's victory, and the need for foreign troops, is an embarrassment to Nigeria's once-mighty military.

The Guardian

Quite apart from the endless physical barriers, some of them quite newly installed despite the strictures of the Equalities Act, disabled people are often isolated by the embarrassment of the rest of us.

The Guardian - Opinion

Then, Iris Robinson's affair with a teenager was exposed, much to the embarrassment of her husband and resulting in her temporary withdrawal from public life including standing down as MP for Strangford.

The Guardian

The lower-ability groups responded particularly well, possibly because they enjoyed the different format, and being able to pause or rewind without embarrassment.

The Guardian

Above all, it has made risk possible, with its "right to fail" philosophy; this can provoke embarrassment in a big space, but seems perfectly acceptable in a small one.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "embarrassment", consider the intensity of the feeling you want to convey and choose synonyms like "humiliation" or "shame" for stronger emotions, or "awkwardness" for milder situations.

Common error

Avoid using "embarrassment" when "guilt" is more appropriate. "Embarrassment" refers to feeling self-conscious or ashamed in a social situation, while "guilt" involves remorse for a wrongdoing.

Linguistic Context

The word "embarrassment" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a state of discomfort or self-consciousness. Ludwig AI validates this usage and provides numerous examples in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Opinion

15%

Sports

10%

Less common in

Lifestyle

3%

Film

3%

Books

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "embarrassment" is a common noun used to describe a state of feeling self-conscious, awkward, or ashamed. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. As demonstrated by the examples, it frequently appears in News & Media, Opinion pieces, and Sports articles. While it has a neutral register, the specific context can influence the overall tone. When writing, consider the intensity of the feeling you wish to convey and choose synonyms like "humiliation", "shame", or "awkwardness" accordingly. Be mindful of the distinction between "embarrassment" and "guilt" to ensure accurate word choice. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of "embarrassment", equipping you with the knowledge to use it effectively and avoid common errors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

humiliation

Emphasizes the feeling of being publicly degraded or made to feel foolish.

shame

Highlights a painful feeling of humiliation or distress caused by the consciousness of wrong or foolish behavior.

awkwardness

Focuses on the uncomfortable feeling of being in a socially clumsy or embarrassing situation.

discomfiture

Suggests a feeling of unease or embarrassment; slightly more formal than "embarrassment".

mortification

Indicates a severe feeling of shame or embarrassment.

chagrin

Implies vexation or annoyance marked by disappointment or failure.

disgrace

Highlights the loss of respect or honor due to a shameful action or situation.

loss of face

Focuses on the cultural aspect of losing dignity or prestige in the eyes of others.

social faux pas

Specifically refers to a socially awkward or inappropriate action.

gaffe

Denotes an unintentional act or remark causing embarrassment to its originator; often public.

FAQs

How can I use "embarrassment" in a sentence?

You can use "embarrassment" to describe a feeling of self-consciousness, shame, or awkwardness. For example, "He felt a wave of embarrassment when he realized he'd called her by the wrong name."

What are some alternatives to the word "embarrassment"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "humiliation", "shame", "awkwardness", or "discomfiture".

What's the difference between "embarrassment" and "shame"?

"Embarrassment" is a feeling of self-consciousness or awkwardness, often in social situations. "Shame" is a more intense feeling of humiliation or distress, often related to moral or ethical wrongdoings.

Is it correct to say "an embarrassment of riches"?

Yes, "an embarrassment of riches" is an idiom that means having so many good things that it's almost overwhelming. It is a correct and commonly used expression.