slightly embarrassing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "slightly embarrassing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or feeling that causes a small amount of embarrassment. Example: "I found it slightly embarrassing when I tripped in front of my colleagues during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

'It's slightly embarrassing.

The Guardian - Books

If you know anything about rap, it's slightly embarrassing.

The New Yorker

"It was slightly embarrassing for me," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Now much of it looks small and slightly embarrassing.

The New York Times - Arts

For Sale: One Previously Owned Cultural Moment/Now Slightly Embarrassing.

The New York Times - Magazine

The Maudes use "sappy," too, but drop the third iteration, as if it were slightly embarrassing.

The New Yorker

It's unfortunate timing – and slightly embarrassing for us, bearing in mind our connections with Preston.

Independent

Davies is now Smith's carer, but says he finds the term slightly embarrassing.

The Guardian

When I was a teenager, the whole Swan Boat operation seemed dorky and slightly embarrassing.

The New York Times

I think it's slightly embarrassing to act full out at 890 Broadway with people looking at you from folding chairs".

The New York Times

A Virgin spokesman said: "It's unfortunate timing – and slightly embarrassing for us, bearing in mind our connections with Preston.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slightly embarrassing" to describe situations where the level of embarrassment is mild and doesn't cause significant distress or humiliation. It's useful for downplaying an awkward moment.

Common error

Avoid using "slightly embarrassing" in highly formal or professional writing where a more serious or nuanced term might be more appropriate. Consider alternatives that reflect the gravity of the situation more accurately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slightly embarrassing" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun, typically to describe a situation, event, or feeling. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

9%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slightly embarrassing" is a commonly used adjective phrase to describe situations that cause a mild level of discomfort or shame. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and widely accepted. While suitable for many contexts, it might be less appropriate for formal writing where more precise language is needed. For alternatives, consider "a bit awkward" or "somewhat humiliating", depending on the nuance you aim to convey. The phrase appears frequently in news and media sources. When writing, remember that overusing "slightly embarrassing" in formal contexts can diminish the impact of your writing, so choose your words carefully.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a bit awkward

Replaces "slightly embarrassing" with a more direct term for discomfort.

somewhat humiliating

Emphasizes the aspect of reduced dignity compared to the original phrase.

mildly mortifying

Highlights the feeling of shame, though still in a subdued manner.

a little humiliating

Similar to 'somewhat humiliating' but uses a more colloquial tone.

somewhat shameful

Focuses on the feeling of shame or disgrace.

a tad shameful

A more casual and understated way of saying 'somewhat shameful'.

reasonably shameful

Emphasizes the rationality aspect of shame.

a bit off-putting

Shifts the focus to causing a negative impression on others.

a touch awkward

Uses "touch" to soften the sense of awkwardness compared to "a bit".

moderately disgraceful

Increases the intensity of the negative feeling, suggesting a higher level of shame.

FAQs

How can I use "slightly embarrassing" in a sentence?

You can use "slightly embarrassing" to describe situations that cause a small amount of shame or discomfort. For example, "It was "slightly embarrassing" when I forgot the speaker's name."

What are some alternatives to "slightly embarrassing"?

Alternatives include "a bit awkward", "somewhat humiliating", or "mildly mortifying", depending on the specific context and the intensity of the feeling you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a little embarrassing" instead of "slightly embarrassing"?

Yes, "a little embarrassing" is a perfectly acceptable alternative to "slightly embarrassing". Both phrases convey a similar meaning and are commonly used in English.

What's the difference between "slightly embarrassing" and "very embarrassing"?

"Slightly embarrassing" implies a mild level of discomfort or shame, while "very embarrassing" suggests a much stronger and more intense feeling of embarrassment. The choice depends on the actual emotional impact of the situation.