What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ignominy
Example
The politician resigned in ignominy after being caught in a corruption scandal. [ignominy: noun]
Example
He suffered the ignominy of being fired from his job for stealing office supplies. [ignominy: noun]
infamy
Example
The serial killer achieved infamy for his gruesome crimes. [infamy: noun]
Example
The company gained infamy for its unethical business practices. [infamy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ignominy and infamy are both less common words that are more likely to be used in formal writing or speech than in everyday conversation. However, infamy is slightly more common than ignominy.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ignominy and infamy?
Both ignominy and infamy are formal words that are not commonly used in informal contexts. However, infamy has a stronger negative connotation and is more likely to be used in highly formal or legal contexts.
