it was cringeworthy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was cringeworthy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that causes feelings of embarrassment or discomfort due to its awkwardness or inappropriateness. Example: "The presentation was so poorly executed that it was cringeworthy, making the audience squirm in their seats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

He realized what he had done, and although it was cringeworthy, laughter knows no language barrier.

Los Angeles Times

And, yes, it was cringeworthy to see her take the podium, calmly admit that she was extremely nervous and read a prepared statement in which she justified her decision to stay with the philandering former congressman.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In one show about the Chorlton-based men's outfitter Burt's, she announces that Mousy Mike "is only happy selling to his fellow comb-overs... it's cringeworthy".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I don't want to look, but it filters through and it's cringeworthy, like: What happened now?

TechCrunch

Some would argue it is cringeworthy to make such a song and dance of Australia's international artistic success, because it makes the country look desperate for global validation.

BBC

It's cringeworthy and scary," Britton said. . "All I can say is Rayna's tough and she's sustained a lot," she added.

Huffington Post

He chose the right answer, but the exchange was cringeworthy.

Independent

Before that, nothing was cringeworthy.

Huffington Post

Warren's political buccal swab was cringeworthy.

HuffPost

The metaphor of dedicated public servants tasked with taping together the president's shredded paper is too perfect; its triteness is cringeworthy.

Vice

Repenting with a screenshot of a lengthy statement, which makes it clear that Duplass thinks his crime was inciting backlash, is cringeworthy.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was cringeworthy" to describe situations that evoke a strong sense of vicarious embarrassment or awkwardness. It's effective when you want to convey that something was so awkward that it made you physically uncomfortable.

Common error

While "it was cringeworthy" is a vivid descriptor, avoid overusing it. Constant repetition can dilute its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language with synonyms like "it was embarrassing" or "it was awkward" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was cringeworthy" functions as a subjective descriptor. It expresses an opinion or feeling about a past event or situation. Ludwig AI shows that it's used to convey discomfort or embarrassment experienced by the speaker or observer.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it was cringeworthy" is a descriptor used to express feelings of embarrassment or discomfort stemming from an awkward or inappropriate situation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. While generally neutral in register, it’s best suited for describing situations in news and media, but overuse should be avoided to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "it was embarrassing" or "it was awkward" can provide variety and prevent repetition. Keep in mind that it describes an event that took place in the past.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was embarrassing

This alternative is a direct synonym, focusing on the feeling of shame or awkwardness experienced.

it was awkward

This emphasizes the uncomfortable or clumsy nature of the situation.

it was mortifying

This intensifies the feeling of embarrassment to an extreme level.

it was humiliating

This suggests a lowering of someone's dignity or pride.

it was distasteful

This focuses on the unpleasant or offensive nature of the event.

it was regrettable

This implies that the situation caused regret or disappointment.

it was unfortunate

This suggests that the situation was unlucky or undesirable.

it was shameful

This highlights the morally reprehensible aspect of the situation.

it was appalling

This conveys a sense of shock and disgust at the situation.

it was excruciating

This suggests that the experience was intensely painful or difficult to endure emotionally.

FAQs

What does "it was cringeworthy" mean?

The phrase "it was cringeworthy" describes something that causes feelings of embarrassment or discomfort due to its awkwardness or inappropriateness.

What can I say instead of "it was cringeworthy"?

You can use alternatives like "it was embarrassing", "it was awkward", or "it was mortifying" depending on the context.

Is "it's cringeworthy" or "it was cringeworthy" more appropriate?

The choice between "it's cringeworthy" and "it was cringeworthy" depends on the tense you need. Use "it's cringeworthy" to describe something currently happening or a general observation. Use "it was cringeworthy" to describe something that happened in the past.

How can I use "it was cringeworthy" in a sentence?

Here are some examples: "The entire presentation was so poorly executed that "it was cringeworthy".", "His attempt at a joke "it was cringeworthy" to watch."