Embarrassment: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when someone feels uncomfortable or self-conscious because they have made a mistake or something has gone wrong.

• She felt deep embarrassment when she tripped on stage.
• His face turned red with embarrassment after he forgot his lines.

Shame is used to describe a strong feeling of guilt or disgrace, often related to one's morals or perceived failure.

• She felt a deep sense of shame after lying to her parents.
• He couldn't shake off the shame of his past mistakes.

This word carries a very negative connotation and is used when someone feels extreme shame, often publicly, due to being embarrassed in a degrading way.

• He felt profound humiliation after being ridiculed by his peers.
• The public scolding brought a sense of humiliation that took years to overcome.

This word is appropriate for situations that feel uncomfortable or uneasy, often due to social interactions or unclear expectations.

• There was a moment of awkwardness when they both reached for the same handshake.
• Her attempts to break the silence only added to the awkwardness of the situation.

Used when someone feels uncomfortable or ashamed about something, often in social situations.

• She felt a wave of embarrassment when everyone started laughing at her mistake.
• The sudden fall caused him great embarrassment.

Used when someone feels extremely ashamed, often because they have been degraded or insulted. Usually carries a more intense and negative connotation than 'embarrassment'.

• Her public scolding caused him deep humiliation.
• The failure was a humiliation she never wanted to experience again.

Used to describe a situation that feels uncomfortable or uneasy, often due to social or situational clumsiness.

• There was an awkwardness in the air when they both showed up at the party wearing the same outfit.
• His awkwardness around new people made it difficult for him at social gatherings.

Used to describe a strong feeling of guilt or regret, often related to a moral or ethical failing. It can be both internal and caused by external judgment.

• He felt a sense of shame about cheating on the test.
• The scandal brought shame to the entire family.