What is embarrass? Pronunciation and usage in English

embarrass means . Learn how to pronounce and use embarrass through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of embarrass

embarrassverb

/ɪmˈbarəs//ɛmˈbarəs/
Definition & pronunciation of embarrass

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "embarrass" in English. It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Basic Sound:

  • "Em-": This part sounds like "em" as in "empty."
  • "-barrass": This is the most challenging part. It's a combination of sounds:
    • "ba": Like the "ba" in "bad".
    • "-rass": This is the key! It's a subtle sound, and it's not like the "rass" in "grass." It's closer to a quick, slightly rolled "r" combined with a short "a" sound. Think of it like a very short, muted "ar" sound.

2. Putting it Together - The Whole Word:

Em- ber-rass. (Stress is on the second syllable: "ber")

3. Phonetic Breakdown (For accuracy):

  • /ɪmˈbærɑːs (This is an approximation using the International Phonetic Alphabet - IPA. If you're familiar with IPA, it'll be helpful.)

4. Tips & Tricks:

  • Practice the "-rass" sound: Try saying "bar" quickly and then adding a very short, light "a" sound at the end. That's close to the target sound.
  • Don't over-emphasize the "r": It's not a strong, rolling "r" like you'd hear in "red." It's a softened, almost "h" sound blended with a short "a."
  • Listen to native speakers: This is crucial. Here are some resources:
    • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce embarrass" on YouTube. You'll find many videos with audio examples. (Rachel's English and English with Lucy are good channels)
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/embarrass/ - This website lets you hear how native speakers pronounce words in different accents.

5. Common Mistakes:

  • Saying "em-grass": This is a very common mistake! Remember "barrass."
  • Over-rolling the "r": The "r" in "-rass" is subtle.

To help me give you even more tailored guidance, could you tell me:

  • What is your native language? (This will help me anticipate any specific pronunciation challenges you might have.)

Usage and examples with the word embarrass in English

Let's break down how to use the word "embarrass" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances, so it's important to understand them.

1. As a Verb (Feeling Ashamed or Self-Conscious)

This is the most common usage. It describes the feeling of being awkward, ashamed, or uncomfortable, often because of something you've done or said.

  • Example: "I was so embarrassed when I tripped and fell in front of everyone."
  • Example: "She felt embarrassed about her mistake and quickly apologized."
  • Synonyms: Awkward, humiliated, ashamed, uncomfortable, mortified.

2. As a Verb (To Make Someone Else Feel Awkward or Shameful)

"Embarrass" can also mean to cause someone else to feel awkward or self-conscious.

  • Example: "He embarrassed his little sister by telling everyone about her secret."
  • Example: "Don't embarrass me by asking me such a personal question."
  • Synonyms: Humiliate, make ashamed, cause discomfort.

3. As an Adjective (Awkward, Shameful, or Foolish - less common)

Less frequently, "embarrassing" is used as an adjective to describe a situation or action.

  • Example: "That was an embarrassing moment for the team." (Referring to the situation)
  • Example: "He made an embarrassing remark." (Referring to the remark)

Here's a breakdown of common phrases using "embarrass":

  • Embarrassed to admit: Feeling shy or hesitant to reveal something. "I was embarrassed to admit I didn't understand the instructions."
  • Embarrassing situation: A situation that is awkward and uncomfortable. “It was an embarrassing situation when my trousers ripped at the concert.”
  • Embarrassing mistake: A mistake that makes you feel ashamed. “I made an embarrassing mistake on the test and brought my whole grade down.”

Tips for Using "Embarrass" Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to how the word is being used in a sentence to understand its meaning.
  • Strong emotion: “Embarrassed” usually implies a strong feeling of shame or awkwardness.
  • Don’t overuse it: While it’s a useful word, avoid using it in every situation where you feel a little uncomfortable. Sometimes, "awkward" or “uncomfortable” might be better choices.

Resources for More Practice:

To help me tailor my explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • What specifically are you trying to use “embarrass” for? (e.g., writing a story, giving a presentation, just understanding the word better?)

Synonyms for the word embarrass

Practice with vocabulary embarrass

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The technical glitch during his keynote speech seemed to ______ the CEO, causing a brief pause.
  2. Forgetting the client's name during the negotiation was quite an ______ situation for the sales team.
  3. The intricate details of the new compliance regulations tend to ______ even experienced auditors.
  4. Low attendance at the first workshop did not ______ the organizers from planning subsequent sessions.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. His inappropriate joke at the formal dinner party served to ______ several guests. A) amuse B) delight C) embarrass D) offend E) mortify

  2. Sarah felt incredibly ______ when she realized she had sent the confidential email to the wrong recipient. A) pleased B) ecstatic C) mortified D) embarrassed E) ashamed

  3. The company faced considerable public ______ after the data breach was widely reported. A) praise B) commendation C) ridicule D) scrutiny E) embarrassment

  4. A lack of clear communication can significantly ______ project progress. A) facilitate B) expedite C) hinder D) promote E) obstruct

  5. Investors became more ______ about the startup's future after several missed financial targets. A) optimistic B) confident C) wary D) apprehensive E) eager

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. His complete lack of preparation made him feel very awkward during the presentation.

    • Rewrite the sentence using a form of "embarrass".

  2. The mistake made by the junior assistant put the whole team in a difficult position.

    • Rewrite the sentence using a form of "embarrass".

  3. The sudden downturn in the market surprised many financial analysts.

    • Rewrite the sentence using a suitable replacement word for "surprised", without using "embarrass".

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. embarrass
  2. embarrassing
  3. perplex
  4. discourage

Exercise 2:

  1. C) embarrass, D) offend, E) mortify
  2. C) mortified, D) embarrassed, E) ashamed
  3. C) ridicule, E) embarrassment
  4. C) hinder, E) obstruct
  5. C) wary, D) apprehensive

Exercise 3:

  1. His complete lack of preparation thoroughly embarrassed him during the presentation.
  2. The mistake made by the junior assistant was embarrassing for the whole team.
  3. The sudden downturn in the market shocked many financial analysts.

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