indignity

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "indignity" is correct and usable in written English.
It typically refers to a state of humiliation or offense caused by a rude or degrading act. For example: "The prisoner was subjected to a terrible indignity by his captors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It paints a vivid picture of the indignity of detention through distressing and detailed case studies.

The Guardian

Without good toilets, many young girls face the indignity of having to manage hygiene during menstruation without water, in dark corners, with fear of being watched.

The Guardian

This latest indignity saw the extension of a more worrying trend, too.

The Guardian - Sport

Nadal simply had no answer to Murray's variety and consistency, cutting an increasingly forlorn figure as he was repeatedly subjected to the rare indignity of being outrallied and out-thought from the back of the court.

The Guardian - Sport

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 5.55am BST05:55 After the praise being heaped on Martha Raddatz's performance as a moderator, the ultimate indignity for Paul Ryan Philip Bumpump (@pbump) October 12, 2012 Somehow at this debate, Paul Ryan came in third.

The Guardian

Olivier spares Richard, and himself, the full force of this indignity.

The Guardian - Film

The big men, who command loyalty and weapons on the ground in Darfur, pointedly stayed away.This was an indignity too far for the Great Leader, who had staked a lot on getting recalcitrant rebels to the negotiating table.

The Economist

Nick, from Britain, does not suffer that indignity, but having no other names, may be hard to spot.

The Economist

If Falcon 9 does, indeed, manage to get man-rated, they may be spared that indignity.

The Economist

The indignity was compounded by the fact that the Jazz still had six days left to spend in rabid Chicago and two more games to play there.

The Economist

Islamist terrorists protested against this indignity in several attacks in Saudi Arabia during the 1990s.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "indignity" to emphasize the emotional or psychological impact of an action, rather than just the action itself. It conveys a sense of wounded pride or lowered status.

Common error

Avoid using "indignity" to describe simple inconveniences or minor annoyances. "Indignity" implies a significant affront to one's dignity or self-respect, not just a mild frustration.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "indignity" is as a noun. It typically functions as the object of a verb or preposition, describing an instance or state of being treated with disrespect or causing a loss of dignity. Examples from Ludwig show it used to describe various kinds of affronts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

18%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "indignity" is a versatile noun used to describe a situation that causes offense or humiliation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in various contexts, most frequently in News & Media, reflecting its role in describing events that challenge someone's dignity. When writing, remember that "indignity" refers to a significant affront, not just a minor inconvenience. Alternatives include "humiliating treatment" or "degrading experience", offering nuanced ways to express similar concepts. Using "indignity" effectively requires sensitivity to the emotional weight it carries, ensuring it accurately reflects the gravity of the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

humiliation

A more direct synonym, referring to the state of being humiliated.

loss of dignity

Directly refers to the absence of self-respect or honor.

humiliating treatment

Focuses on the action causing the indignity, highlighting the humiliating aspect.

debasement

Emphasizes the reduction in status or moral character.

degrading experience

Emphasizes the lowering or debasing nature of the experience.

affront to one's pride

Specifies that the indignity is targeted at one's sense of self-worth.

offensive act

Highlights the transgression and the feeling of being affronted.

disrespectful behavior

Highlights the lack of respect shown, leading to the indignity.

slighting remark

Focuses on verbal insults that cause offense.

shameful episode

Focuses on the event causing disgrace or dishonor.

FAQs

How can I use "indignity" in a sentence?

You can use "indignity" to describe situations where someone's pride or dignity is deeply offended. For example, "They suffered the "indignity" of being searched in public".

What's the difference between "humiliation" and "indignity"?

"Humiliation" is the feeling of being ashamed or foolish, while "indignity" is the act or circumstance that causes that feeling. "Indignity" often leads to humiliation.

What can I say instead of "indignity"?

You can use alternatives like "humiliating treatment", "degrading experience", or "offensive act" depending on the specific context.

Is "indignity" a formal word?

Yes, "indignity" is generally considered a formal word. It's appropriate for use in news reports, academic papers, and professional communications.