with embarrassment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "with embarrassment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a feeling of self-consciousness or shame in a particular situation. Example: "She spoke with embarrassment about her mistake during the presentation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He looked at me with embarrassment.

The New Yorker

Almost with embarrassment, you pity him somewhat.

The New Yorker

The boys, suddenly pink with embarrassment, laughed.

The New York Times

I'd curl up with embarrassment.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I was paralysed with embarrassment.

The Guardian

Her face flushed with embarrassment.

The New Yorker

Instead, he appeared to choke with embarrassment.

The Guardian - Business

He growled with embarrassment, "Oh, shit!

The New Yorker

Recalling this, I flushed with embarrassment.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We had one pensioner shaking with embarrassment".

The Guardian - Opinion

Is it with embarrassment or rage?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "with embarrassment" to precisely convey a feeling of shame or awkwardness. Ensure that the context clearly indicates the cause of the embarrassment for maximum impact.

Common error

Avoid using "with embarrassment" in highly formal or professional writing where a more objective tone is expected. Instead, consider using phrases like "with regret" or providing a factual account without explicitly stating emotional states.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with embarrassment" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig AI confirms its role in adding context about feelings during an action, as shown in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "with embarrassment" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase to express feelings of shame or awkwardness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively modifies verbs by describing the manner in which an action is performed. While predominantly found in news and media contexts, it's crucial to consider the formality of the writing: in professional contexts, be wary of emotional tone and opt for more objective language if necessary. When you are seeking alternatives, options like "in an embarrassed manner" or "with a sense of shame" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with a sense of shame

Emphasizes the feeling of shame accompanying the action.

in a state of embarrassment

Rephrases the expression to emphasize the condition of being embarrassed.

in an embarrassed manner

Describes the way something is done, indicating embarrassment.

feeling ashamed

Focuses on the feeling of shame associated with embarrassment.

displaying awkwardness

Highlights the awkward behavior resulting from embarrassment.

with a blush of shame

Emphasizes the physical reaction (blushing) due to shame.

mortified by

Highlights the feeling of being extremely embarrassed.

humiliated by

Emphasizes the feeling of being lowered in dignity due to embarrassment.

red-faced

Focuses on the physical manifestation of embarrassment.

with discomfort

Broadly indicates uneasiness stemming from the embarrassing situation.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "with embarrassment" in a sentence?

Use "with embarrassment" to describe an action or statement done while feeling ashamed or awkward. For example, "He admitted "with embarrassment" that he had forgotten their anniversary".

Are there alternative ways to express "with embarrassment"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "feeling ashamed", "in an embarrassed manner", or "with a sense of shame" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever inappropriate to use the phrase "with embarrassment"?

While generally acceptable, avoid using "with embarrassment" in very formal contexts where objectivity is key. Opt for more neutral language unless conveying the specific emotion is crucial to the message.

What's the difference between "with embarrassment" and "with humiliation"?

"With embarrassment" suggests a feeling of awkwardness or shame, while "with humiliation" implies a deeper sense of being degraded or publicly shamed. The choice depends on the intensity of the feeling you want to express.