TextRanch

The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

1. Input your text below.
2. Get it corrected in a few minutes by our editors.
3. Improve your English!

One of our experts will correct your English.

Our experts

embarrassing vs awkward

Both 'embarrassing' and 'awkward' are correct English words, but they have slightly different meanings and contexts of use. 'Embarrassing' is used to describe situations that cause someone to feel self-conscious, ashamed, or uncomfortable. On the other hand, 'awkward' is used to describe situations that are uncomfortable, clumsy, or socially difficult. While there can be overlap between the two, they are not always interchangeable.

Last updated: March 31, 2024

embarrassing

The word 'embarrassing' is a correct English term commonly used to describe situations that cause someone to feel self-conscious, ashamed, or uncomfortable.

Use 'embarrassing' to describe situations that make you feel ashamed, self-conscious, or uncomfortable. For example, 'It was embarrassing when I tripped in front of everyone.'

Examples:

  • It was embarrassing when I forgot her name.
  • The situation was embarrassing for both of us.
  • He felt embarrassed by his mistake.
  • She found the whole situation embarrassing.
  • The speech was embarrassing and awkward.
  • There's nothing embarrassing about supporting your family.
  • Agent Gibbs has highlighted the embarrassing truth.
  • No, I'm embarrassing you.
  • But, obviously, I'm embarrassing you.
  • What I saw today was embarrassing.
  • But there's nothing embarrassing about that.
  • Then something embarrassing and disgraceful happened.
  • So not embarrassing or scandalous, just secretive.
  • Never seen such an embarrassing performance.
  • That left in an embarrassing situation.
  • Man, last night was embarrassing.
  • This isn't for would be embarrassing.
  • You better not have done anything embarrassing.
  • Bit embarrassing after your little speech.
  • Nothing illegal... but considerably embarrassing.
  • Little embarrassing given we haven't been killed.
  • Otherwise that would've been awfully embarrassing.
  • There's nothing embarrassing about dating family.
  • Briefly satisfying, but ultimately it's embarrassing.
  • Probably more embarrassing to the 12-year-old who left it there.

Alternatives:

  • humiliating
  • shameful
  • mortifying
  • discomfiting
  • awkward

awkward

The word 'awkward' is a correct English term commonly used to describe situations that are uncomfortable, clumsy, or socially difficult.

Use 'awkward' to describe situations that are uncomfortable, clumsy, or socially difficult. For example, 'The conversation became awkward when no one knew what to say.'

Examples:

  • The silence was awkward.
  • It was an awkward moment when they realized they were wearing the same outfit.
  • He felt awkward at the party.
  • The situation became awkward when they disagreed.
  • The whole encounter was awkward and uncomfortable.
  • Must have been awkward at Commencement.
  • Maybe you should leave before things get awkward.
  • It's so awkward with neighbors.
  • It's just too awkward to be around him.
  • But it's rather awkward with the bridegroom behind bars.
  • I thought that her coming would put you in an awkward position.
  • No awkward silences between soup and salad.
  • As if family holidays weren't awkward enough.
  • I remember some very awkward slumber parties.
  • This is awkward enough without the gun.
  • And I thought meeting your mother was awkward.
  • I appreciate this is very awkward.
  • Clumsy, awkward, but hopefully effective.
  • More like bunnies with awkward silences and sullen looks.
  • Now everything's even more awkward.
  • We're standing in the hallway, suffering through an awkward encounter.
  • Trust me, anything longer than an elevator ride would be totally awkward.
  • Explaining it could be kind of... awkward.
  • At the beginning, it was awkward.
  • Last time I was kissed in a garden, it turned out rather awkward.

Alternatives:

  • uncomfortable
  • clumsy
  • socially difficult
  • embarrassing
  • cringeworthy

Related Comparisons

What Our Customers Are Saying

Our customers love us! We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283,125 votes.
Also check out our 2,100+ reviews on TrustPilot (4.9TextRanch on TrustPilot).

Why choose TextRanch?

Lowest prices
Up to 50% lower than other online editing sites.

Fastest Times
Our team of editors is working for you 24/7.

Qualified Editors
Native English experts for UK or US English.

Top Customer Service
We are here to help. Satisfaction guaranteed!