B1adjective2K

Embarrassing

UK /["/ɪmˈbærəsɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɪmˈbærəsɪŋ/"]/

Definition

making you feel shy, uncomfortable or ashamed

In simple words: Something that makes you feel ashamed or awkward.

Examples

  • It was so embarrassing when I tripped in front of everyone at the party.
  • She felt embarrassing to ask for help in her difficult class.
  • For him, forgetting his lines during the play was the most embarrassing moment of his life.
  • He found it embarrassing to admit that he was wrong.
  • The embarrassing photos from the vacation still make her cringe even years later.

Usage notes

Use 'embarrassing' for situations that cause discomfort. It's neutral but can feel more formal than 'awkward'. Avoid in serious contexts where shame isn't implied.

Grammar pattern

embarrassing + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'embarrass' as 'bare' — you feel exposed or bare when embarrassed.

Collocations

  • be
  • prove
  • sound
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • for
  • to
  • be
  • prove
  • sound
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • for
  • to

Synonyms

  • awkward
  • humiliating
  • shameful
  • uncomfortable
  • cringeworthy

Antonyms

  • confident
  • unembarrassed

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'embarrassed' (the feeling) instead of 'embarrassing' (the situation).
  • Using 'embarrassing' without a noun (it usually describes a situation).
  • Overusing in casual conversations instead of lighter words like 'awkward'.