embarrassment
/ɪmˈbær.əs.mənt/ IELTSAcademic
noun
Embarrassment is a feeling of discomfort, shame, or self-consciousness. It often happens when you make a mistake or feel exposed in public.
- I felt embarrassment when I forgot her name.
- His embarrassment showed on his face.
- She laughed to hide her embarrassment.
Adinary Nuance
Embarrassment is weaker and more social than shame. Shame suggests deeper guilt or moral hurt, while embarrassment is often about awkwardness, mistakes, or attention from others. It is also different from humiliation, which is usually more painful and strongly insulting.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- Sự xấu hổ
- Spanish
- Vergüenza
- Chinese
- 尴尬
- Japanese
- 恥ずかしさ
- Korean
- 당혹감
Etymology
Embarrassment comes from the French word embarrasser, meaning “to block” or “to hinder.” It entered English in the 17th century, first with the sense of difficulty or trouble.
Common phrases
feel embarrassmenthide your embarrassmenta source of embarrassmentembarrassment at work
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is embarrassment the same as shame?
- No. Embarrassment is usually lighter and more social. Shame is deeper and often feels more serious.
- Is embarrassment formal or informal?
- It is neutral. You can use it in everyday speech, writing, and business English.
- What is the adjective form of embarrassment?
- The adjective is embarrassed. Example: “I felt embarrassed.”
- Can embarrassment mean a problem for someone?
- Yes. In formal writing, it can mean something that causes trouble or loss of respect.