Synonyms for
Embarrassing
Definition
causing someone to feel ashamed, nervous, or uncomfortable
Synonyms & similar words
abash
obstruct
mortifying
stymy
embarrass
stymie
awkward
block
hinder
sticky
unenviable
blockade
awkward
shameful
humiliating
mortifying
uncomfortable
discomfiting
disconcerting
awkward
unpleasant
painful
humbling
degrading
abasing
chagrining
discreditable
ignominious
shameless
dishonorable
scandalous
reproachful
Synonyms by register
Literary
Antonyms
Common collocations
- deeply embarrassing
- utterly embarrassing
- embarrassing moment
- embarrassing situation
- embarrassing mistake
- embarrassing question
- embarrassing display
Word family
Usage note
While 'embarrassing' describes something that causes embarrassment, 'embarrassed' is the adjective describing the feeling of being embarrassed. Avoid using 'embarrassing' to describe a person directly; instead, describe the situation or action as embarrassing.
Example sentences
- It was embarrassing when I tripped and fell in front of everyone at school.
- My mom embarrasses me when she sings loudly in public.
- I felt embarrassed when I forgot my lines in the school play.
- It's embarrassing to have spinach stuck in your teeth during a job interview.
- I found it embarrassing to wear my old clothes to a fancy party.
Quotes
It's embarrassing to be caught in the spotlight when you're just a supporting cast member. - Michael Shannon
There's nothing more embarrassing than somebody catching you looking cool. - Kurt Cobain
I find it very embarrassing when people say something nice about me. - Anne Bancroft
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