embarrassment - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
embarrassment Word Meanings
- a feeling of self-consciousness, shame, or awkwardness
- a situation causing such feelings
- to cause someone to feel embarrassed
embarrassment Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
embarrassment Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪmˈbærəsmənt/
US
/ɪmˈbɛrəsˌmənt/
embarrassment Word Etymology
Root: 'em-' = cause to, 'barrass' = hinder; Historical origin: Latin 'imbarrare' → Old French 'embarrasser' → English; Memory image: Imagine being stuck behind a barrier in a crowded room, feeling awkward and unsure how to move forward.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
I shift my weight and square my shoulders, trying to stay present. The room grows louder in my ears as someone asks a question I stumble over. I pause, breathe, and adjust my posture, letting a small heat rise from my chest. When the moment passes, I keep talking, learning to steer the embarrassment into quiet resolve.
Real Context
Embarrassment is a subtle, often fleeting feeling of self-consciousness and awkwardness that arises when we think others see us in a less than perfect light. It can come from a small social slip, a public mistake, or a misread situation that makes us worry about how we look or sound. The word also covers the moment itself, an embarrassing moment, and the broader experience of feeling uncomfortable as we try to recover. People may blush, stammer, or laugh nervously. Learners should distinguish embarrassment from shame, which is deeper and more lasting, and from awkwardness, which is a broader social vibe.
Usage Reminders
- Use embarrassment to describe a mild, temporary feeling of self-consciousness.
- Distinguish embarrassment from shame and from awkwardness.
- Notice common collocations: feel embarrassed, an embarrassing moment, embarrassment about something.
- You can express recovery with humor or a quick apology.
- Embarrassment can be personal or situational, not a moral failing.
- Pay attention to -ed adjectives (embarrassed) vs -ing forms (embarrassing).
Common Misconceptions
- Embarrassment is the same as shame
- It only happens in front of others
- You should never laugh off embarrassment
- Embarrassment lasts a long time
- If you feel embarrassed, you must be morally wrong
Thinking Differences
Think in English terms: embarrassment often involves a momentary blush, a stumble, or a nervous laugh; it is not a moral failing. Learners should note subtle collocations and how embarrassment changes with context, recognizing that a small social slip in private may feel different from a public faux pas.
Learning Tips
- 1) Memorize common collocations with embarrassment.
- 2) Practice both embarrassed and embarrassing forms in sentences.
- 3) Listen for intonation when describing embarrassing moments.
- 4) Distinguish embarrassment from shame and from awkwardness.
- 5) Use brief apologies or humor to recover from embarrassment.
- 6) Create personal scenarios to practice in context.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'embarrassment' used correctly?
A.She felt joy during the embarrassment
B.The embarrassment won the competition
C.The embarrassment cheered everyone up
D.His face turned red with embarrassment
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'embarrassment'?
A.Pride
B.Approval
C.Confidence
D.Awkwardness
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite meaning of 'embarrassment'?
A.Panic
B.Excitement
C.Humiliation
D.Comfort
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation might someone experience 'embarrassment'?
A.Tripping and falling in public
B.Receiving an award
C.Having a successful presentation
D.Winning a competition
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
🔥 Advanced
A Cup, A Clock, and the Small Things That Matter
English Learning Listening Content
Listen Now
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App