Cool MatePity vs Shame
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
| Pity | Shame | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Feeling sorry for someone else's trouble or sadness. | A feeling of being embarrassed or guilty about something. |
| CEFR level | B2 | B2 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Usage notes | Use 'pity' in situations where you sympathize with someone's difficulties. It's neutral but may sound formal in casual 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: Pity vs Shame
What's the difference between "Pity" and "Shame"?
"Pity" means: Feeling sorry for someone else's trouble or sadness. "Shame" means: A feeling of being embarrassed or guilty about something.
When should I use "Pity" and "Shame"?
They can all be used in everyday English.
Are "Pity" and "Shame" the same CEFR level?
"Pity" is at B2, "Shame" is at B2 on the CEFR scale.