Understanding “Ashamed”: Definition, Synonyms, and Usage
ashamed – Definition and Part of Speech
The term “ashamed” is used primarily as an adjective in English. It describes a feeling of embarrassment or guilt over something one has done or a situation in which one finds oneself involved. Being ashamed often implies a personal reflection where one’s actions do not align with their self-image or societal standards.
Core Synonyms
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Embarrassed | Focuses more on the discomfort from others’ awareness rather than personal guilt. | “She felt embarrassed after slipping in front of her classmates.” | Casual/Everyday, Informal |
| Disgraced | Conveys a deeper sense of loss of honor or respect, often by public perception. | “The politician was disgraced after the scandal became public.” | Formal/Business |
| Mortified | Emphasizes extreme discomfort or humiliation, often more intense than simply being ashamed. | “He was mortified to see his secret revealed at the meeting.” | Literary/Creative |
| Remorseful | Highlights a feeling of regret and sorrow over past actions, suggesting a desire for redemption. | “She felt remorseful for having lied to her friend.” | Academic/Formal |
Usage Notes
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Embarrassed is suitable for everyday conversations or writing when the emphasis is on personal discomfort due to others’ reactions rather than internal guilt. It’s appropriate in casual settings like talking with friends about minor social faux pas.
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Disgraced fits well in formal contexts such as business reports or journalistic pieces, particularly when discussing someone who has lost public esteem or respect through their actions.
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Mortified can be used effectively in creative writing or literature to convey strong feelings of humiliation or embarrassment that affect the individual deeply, adding a dramatic flair to narratives.
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Remorseful is ideal for academic discussions or reflective essays where an analysis of past mistakes and expressions of regret are central themes. It emphasizes internal emotional response more than external perception.
Common Pitfalls
One common confusion with “ashamed” arises from its overlap in meaning with similar terms like “embarrassed.” While both can describe a negative reaction to a situation, “ashamed” inherently carries the weight of personal guilt or moral failing, whereas “embarrassed” might not always imply wrongdoing, but rather discomfort due to an awkward or socially challenging situation.
Another pitfall is overusing “disgraced” in contexts where it doesn’t apply. This term implies significant social or public repercussion and should be reserved for serious situations of dishonor.
Final Recap
“Ashamed” encompasses a spectrum of emotions related to personal guilt, embarrassment, and loss of dignity or respect. Key synonyms include “embarrassed,” which focuses more on external discomfort; “disgraced,” highlighting a severe impact on one’s public image; “mortified,” suggesting deep humiliation; and “remorseful,” emphasizing regret over past actions.
To effectively expand vocabulary and nuance your language, practice using these terms in various contexts. Consider writing sentences or engaging in conversations that explore different facets of these feelings, thereby enhancing both comprehension and expressive ability.