Cringeworthy: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe situations, actions, or comments that are so embarrassing or cheesy that they make you cringe. Often associated with a strong sense of second-hand embarrassment.

• That joke he told was cringeworthy.
• The way she tried to dance at the party was cringeworthy.

Perfect for situations where there is a lack of social grace, causing discomfort or unease. It can also describe someone's physical movements.

• The silence after he made the comment was really awkward.
• She felt awkward trying to start a conversation with the new colleague.

Applied to situations, actions, or comments that make someone feel self-conscious and ashamed. This can be more personal and direct compared to cringeworthy.

• Forgetting her speech was so embarrassing.
• It was embarrassing to spill the drink all over the table.

Describes a general sense of unease or distress in a situation. It can be physical or emotional. Unlike 'embarrassing', it doesn't necessarily involve feelings of shame.

• He felt uncomfortable wearing the ill-fitting suit.
• The meeting became uncomfortable when they started arguing.

Similar to cringeworthy but more active in its implication that something specific causes you to cringe. Often used to describe actions or statements that lead to feeling embarrassed.

• His attempt at singing in public was cringe-inducing.
• The outdated references in his speech were truly cringe-inducing.