embarrassing
Embarrassing (adjective) means causing feelings of shame or awkward self-consciousness. Example: “It was an embarrassing moment for the whole team.”
How to use embarrassing
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDescribes a situation, action, or comment that makes someone (or you) feel awkward or ashamed.
Word forms
more embarrassing comparative, embarrassings plural, most embarrassing superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
It was an _____ moment for the whole team.
Etymology
By surface analysis, embarrass + -ing.
Related words
Rhymes for embarrassing
See all rhymes for embarrassing →Frequently asked questions
What does “embarrassing” mean?
The word “embarrassing” means causing feelings of shame or awkward self-consciousness. In plain terms, describes a situation, action, or comment that makes someone (or you) feel awkward or ashamed.
How do you pronounce “embarrassing”?
“Embarrassing” is pronounced ihm-BAR-uh-sihng (/ɪmˈbæɹ.ə.sɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “embarrassing” in a sentence?
Here is “embarrassing” used in a sentence: “It was an embarrassing moment for the whole team.”
What part of speech is “embarrassing”?
“Embarrassing” is an adjective.
Is “embarrassing” a common word?
“Embarrassing” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between "embarrassing" and "embarrassed"?
"Embarrassing" describes something that causes shame or awkward self-consciousness, while "embarrassed" describes the person who feels that shame. A situation, mistake, or photo is embarrassing; the person experiencing it feels embarrassed.
What is the difference between "embarrassing" and "humiliating"?
Both describe things that cause self-conscious discomfort, but "humiliating" is stronger and suggests a deep loss of dignity or public degradation. "Embarrassing" usually points to milder, more everyday awkwardness.
Why does "embarrassing" have two r's and two s's?
"Embarrassing" is spelled with a double "r" and a double "s," which makes it one of the most commonly misspelled English words. Remembering that it is "really really" and "so so" awkward can help you keep both double letters.
When should you use "embarrassing" instead of "awkward"?
Use "embarrassing" when a situation actively causes feelings of shame or self-consciousness, and "awkward" when a situation is simply uncomfortable, clumsy, or socially strained. Something embarrassing is usually also awkward, but awkward moments are not always shameful.
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