sense of shame
Definition
Noun: A feeling of guilt, embarrassment, or distress caused by the consciousness of having done something wrong, foolish, or immodest. It is an internal awareness that motivates one to adhere to ethical or social standards.
Usage
This noun phrase describes an internal emotional and moral compass. It is typically used to indicate the presence or, more commonly, the notable absence of this feeling in a person's character or actions.
Examples
- He seemed to have no sense of shame, boasting about his dishonest schemes.
- A deep sense of shame overwhelmed her after she realized the hurt her words had caused.
- Their public protest was an act of courage, not something done without a sense of shame.
Advanced Usage
- "To have no sense of shame": This is a common critical phrase implying that a person is brazen, unscrupulous, or lacks basic decency because they feel no embarrassment about their poor behavior.
- "To be devoid of all sense of shame": An emphatic version of the above, suggesting a complete and utter lack of moral feeling.
- "A pang/twinge of shame": While "sense of shame" refers to the general capacity, this variant describes a sudden, sharp feeling of shame in a specific moment.
Variants and Related Words
- Shame (n.): The emotion itself. (e.g., )
- Shamefaced (adj.): Showing a sense of shame through one's expression or manner.
- Shameless (adj.): Behaving without any sense of shame; brazen.
- Modesty (n.): While related, modesty is more about humility and propriety, whereas a sense of shame is the reactive feeling when those are violated.
Synonyms
- Conscience
- Sense of decency
- Sense of propriety
- Moral compunction
Antonyms
- Shamelessness
- Impudence
- Brazenness
Related Idioms
- "To have some shame": A reproachful imperative, urging someone to feel embarrassed and stop their improper behavior. (e.g., )
- "Shame on you/him/her/them": A direct expression of condemnation, implying the person should feel a strong sense of shame for their actions.
Noun
-
a motivating awareness of ethical responsibility
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