Ashamed vs Embarrassed
What’s the difference between them?
Ashamed
Meaning:
feeling guilty after doing something wrong.
Examples:
1) She was ashamed of her poor performance in the race.
2) I felt ashamed for not being able to help my friend in their time of need.
3) His face was filled with shame after he was caught in a lie.
Embarrassed
Meaning:
afraid of being judged; feel uncomfortable due to something.
Examples:
1. She was embarrassed when she accidentally tripped in front of everyone.
2. I was embarrassed when I realized I had forgotten my wallet.
3. He was embarrassed to admit he hadn't finished his homework.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Ashamed
1. Embarrassed
2. Chagrined
3. Discomfited
4. Mortified
5. Abashed
1. Proud
2. Unashamed
3. Bold
4. Unapologetic
5. Unembarrassed
Embarrassed
1. Abashed
2. Discomfited
3. Mortified
4. Disconcerted
5. Flustered
1. Unashamed
2. Confident
3. Assured
4. Bold
5. Unbothered
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Ashamed", "Embarrassed".
1. To easily remember the distinctions between 'ashamed' and 'embarrassed', use the mnemonic 'ashamed is for after, embarrassed is for before'.
2. To feel 'ashamed' is to feel guilty about something you have already done. To feel 'embarrassed' is to feel afraid of being judged for something that has not yet happened.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word, 'ashamed,' be used?
Ashamed should be used to express feelings of guilt or remorse after doing something wrong. It is often used when someone is self-conscious about their actions, either in the past or in the present.
When is the appropriate context for using the second word, 'embarrassed'?
Embarrassed is used to express feelings of fear or apprehension when one feels judged or scrutinized by others. It is often used in situations when someone is made to feel uncomfortable, either in public or in private.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. Ashamed is pronounced /əˈʃeɪmd/, and embarrassed is pronounced /ɪmˈbærəst/.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
One common mistake people make when using these words is confusing the two. Although they are often used interchangeably, they have different meanings. Ashamed is used to express feelings of guilt, and embarrassed is used to express feelings of fear or apprehension. Another mistake people make is using embarrassed when they should be using ashamed. Embarrassed should not be used to express feelings of guilt or remorse.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. I felt ________ after lying to my parents.
2. She was ________ when she tripped in front of everyone.
3. I was so ________ about my mistake.
4. He was ________ when he realized he had forgotten his wallet.
5. She was ________ when she was caught cheating on her test.
6. I was ________ when I stole the apple.
1. I felt ashamed after lying to my parents.
Explanation: To be ashamed is to feel remorse or regret for an action taken, such as lying.
2. She was embarrassed when she tripped in front of everyone.
Explanation: To be embarrassed is to feel ashamed, self-conscious, or uncomfortable due to a situation, such as tripping in public.
3. I was so embarrassed about my mistake.
Explanation: To be embarrassed is to feel ashamed, self-conscious, or uncomfortable due to a mistake or error.
4. He was embarrassed when he realized he had forgotten his wallet.
Explanation: To be embarrassed is to feel ashamed, self-conscious, or uncomfortable due to a situation, such as forgetting ones wallet.
5. She was embarrassed when she was caught cheating on her test.
Explanation: To be embarrassed is to feel ashamed, self-conscious, or uncomfortable due to a situation, such as being caught cheating.
6. I was ashamed when I stole the apple.
Explanation: To be ashamed is to feel remorse or regret for an action taken, such as stealing something.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.