What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mortify
Example
I was mortified when I realized I had spinach in my teeth during the entire meeting. [mortified: past participle]
Example
Her parents' constant criticism mortified her and made her feel worthless. [mortify: verb]
Example
The monk sought to mortify his flesh through fasting and self-denial. [mortify: verb]
abash
Example
He was abashed by the teacher's scolding in front of the class. [abashed: past participle]
Example
The unexpected compliment from her boss abashed her and made her blush. [abashed: verb]
Example
The sudden change in plans abashed him and made him feel uncertain. [abashed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Abash is more commonly used than mortify in everyday language. Abash is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while mortify is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mortify and abash?
Abash is less formal than mortify, making it suitable for use in both formal and informal contexts.
