disgrace - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
disgrace Word Meanings
- A state of not being respected or the loss of respect due to shameful behavior.
- Something that brings shame or dishonor to a person or group.
- To shame or bring dishonor to someone or oneself.
disgrace Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
disgrace Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪsˈɡreɪs/
US
/dɪsˈɡreɪs/
disgrace Word Etymology
a) Root decomposition: dis- + grace. b) Historical origin: from Old French desgrace from des- + grace, ultimately from Latin gratia meaning grace or favor. c) Memory image: in a medieval court a knight loses the king's favor and the family crest bears a stain, a vivid symbol of dishonor.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Disgrace refers to the state of losing respect or bringing dishonor through shameful behavior. It can describe a person who has fallen from public esteem, or an act that brings shame to a person, family, or group. It is stronger than embarrassment and often implies moral judgment or long-lasting social consequences rather than a momentary hassle. The noun emphasizes the condition, while the verb to disgrace means to cause someone else or oneself to lose respect. In many contexts it carries formal or social condemnation, and phrases like 'in disgrace' signal a public, lasting decline in standing.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: disgrace is about social standing, not just embarrassment. Use in formal contexts or when condemning actions. It can describe people or acts. The phrase 'in disgrace' signals public loss of respect. Distinguish from 'shame' as more moral and lasting. Verb form can be transitive or intransitive depending on the sentence. Prefer 'to disgrace someone' rather than 'to disgrace oneself' in some contexts. Collocations: fall into disgrace, bring disgrace, bring disgrace upon. Do not overuse in casual talk.
Common Misconceptions
- Disgrace is the same as embarrassment; it is not a temporary feeling but a sustained loss of respect.
- Disgrace only refers to personal guilt, not to actions by groups or organizations.
- The verb 'to disgrace' is rarely used in modern English; prefer 'shame' in all cases.
- All failures lead to disgrace; some are merely awkward without lasting social impact.
- 'In disgrace' always implies legal or formal punishment.
Thinking Differences
Disgrace carries a heavier moral and social weight than casual embarrassment in English; learners often treat it as just another synonym for 'shame' and overextend it to minor slips.
Learning Tips
- Learn the noun and verb forms together; note noun = state, verb = cause or induce.
- Pair with 'in disgrace' to describe a public fall in status.
- Differentiate from 'shame' which is more common and less formal.
- Study common collocations: fall into disgrace, bring disgrace upon, in disgrace.
- Use in formal writing or news contexts to convey moral judgment.
- Practice with both individual and collective subjects (person, family, group).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'disgrace'?
A.Pray
B.Joy
C.Shame
D.Read
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'disgrace' used correctly?
A.She received a prize for her disgrace behavior.
B.He felt disgrace after winning the competition.
C.The team faced disgrace after losing the important match.
D.The teacher praised the student for their disgrace effort.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'disgrace'?
A.Honor
B.Embarrassment
C.Success
D.Pride
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'disgrace'?
A.Shame
B.Failure
C.Disapproval
D.Praise
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would 'disgrace' be used?
A.Cheating in an exam
B.Receiving an award
C.Helping a friend
D.Writing a book
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