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 fell in front of everyone. [embarrassed: adjective]
Example
She felt embarrassed for forgetting her lines during the play. [embarrassed: preposition]
mortified
Example
He was mortified when he realized he had been wearing his shirt inside out all day. [mortified: verb]
Example
She was absolutely mortified when she accidentally sent a private message to her boss instead of her friend. [mortified: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Embarrassed is a more common word than mortified and is used in everyday language to describe a range of social and personal experiences. Mortified, on the other hand, is less commonly used and may be considered more formal or dramatic.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between embarrassed and mortified?
Mortified is generally considered a more formal or dramatic word than embarrassed. While both words can be used in formal or informal contexts, mortified may be more appropriate in situations where a stronger emotional response is warranted, such as in a professional setting or when discussing a serious mistake or failure.
