Cool MateGuilt vs Shame
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Guilt | Shame | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | A feeling of being bad or wrong about something you did. | A feeling of being embarrassed or guilty about something. |
| CEFR level | C1 | B2 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Usage notes | Used in both formal and informal contexts, often when discussing feelings of remorse or regret. It may not be suitable for lighthearted conversations. | Use 'shame' when talking about feelings of guilt or embarrassment. It's appropriate in most contexts but can feel heavy or serious. Avoid in light-hearted conversations. |
Frequently asked questions: Guilt vs Shame
What's the difference between "Guilt" and "Shame"?
"Guilt" means: A feeling of being bad or wrong about something you did. "Shame" means: A feeling of being embarrassed or guilty about something.
When should I use "Guilt" and "Shame"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Guilt" and "Shame" the same CEFR level?
"Guilt" is at C1, "Shame" is at B2 on the CEFR scale.