Literary notes about Embarrassed (AI summary)
In literature, the term "embarrassed" functions as a multifaceted descriptor that captures everything from sheer physical discomfort to an internal conflict of pride and vulnerability. It is often invoked to convey a sudden, unanticipated state of awkwardness, as when a character is overwhelmed by a socially compromising situation [1] or finds their composure disrupted during personal interactions [2, 3]. Authors also use the word to underscore a character’s self-awareness and the social pressures that accentuate their internal struggle, revealing the tension between personal feelings and external expectations [4, 5, 6]. In this way, "embarrassed" not only communicates a momentary lapse in dignity but also deepens our understanding of character dynamics and social contexts across genres [7, 8, 9].
- I was suddenly embarrassed to be covered in piss and barf.
— from Little Brother by Cory Doctorow - And coughing in an embarrassed way, he walked away quickly, without remembering to put his hat on.
— from The Duel and Other Stories by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov - When his eye fell on Tatyana Ivanovna he ran up to her, and, if she were carrying anything, offered his assistance, which embarrassed her dreadfully.
— from Project Gutenberg Compilation of Short Stories by Chekhov by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov - The place struck me as indeed intolerably stuffy, and very hot; my face burned as though I had been young enough to be embarrassed and blushing.
— from Lord Jim by Joseph Conrad - Winterbourne pursued, a little embarrassed.
— from Daisy Miller: A Study by Henry James - This cemetery, with its peculiarities outside the regulations, embarrassed the symmetry of the administration.
— from Les Misérables by Victor Hugo - Emily, who felt somewhat embarrassed how to support a conversation, was glad of such an opportunity to continue it on indifferent topics.
— from The Mysteries of Udolpho by Ann Ward Radcliffe - Was it merely to ride to Longbourn and be embarrassed? or had you intended any more serious consequence?"
— from Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen - Avoid crossing the room alone, and never run, even if you feel embarrassed, and wish to cross quickly.
— from The Ladies' Book of Etiquette, and Manual of Politeness by Florence Hartley
