What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
embarrassed
Example
I was so embarrassed when I tripped and spilled my drink all over myself. [embarrassed: adjective]
Example
She felt embarrassed when she realized she had mispronounced the word. [embarrassed: past participle]
humiliated
Example
He was humiliated when he was fired in front of his colleagues. [humiliated: past participle]
Example
The team felt humiliated after losing the championship game. [humiliated: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Embarrassed is a more commonly used word than humiliated in everyday language. Embarrassment is a relatable experience that most people go through at some point in their lives, while humiliation is less common and may be associated with traumatic experiences.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between embarrassed and humiliated?
Embarrassed is a more versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while humiliated is typically associated with a more formal or serious tone due to its severity.