shamefaced

/'ʃeim,feist/

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Explanation of "Shamefaced"

Definition: The word "shamefaced" is an adjective used to describe someone who looks or feels ashamed or embarrassed. It suggests that the person has a sense of guilt or modesty, often shown through their expression or body language.

Usage Instructions:

• When to use: Use "shamefaced" when talking about someone who is feeling guilty or embarrassed about something they have done.
• How to use: You can place it before a noun (e.g., "shamefaced look") or use it to describe a person's demeanor (e.g., "He felt shamefaced after forgetting her birthday.").

Examples:

1. Basic Example:

   • The child had a shamefaced expression when he realized he had broken the vase.

2. Advanced Example:

   • After receiving criticism for his work, he walked away with a shamefaced demeanor, avoiding eye contact with his colleagues.

Word Variants:

• Noun Form: "Shamefacedness" (the quality of being shamefaced)
  • Example: Her shamefacedness was evident when she apologized for her mistake.

Different Meanings:

1. Literary Use: In literature, "shamefaced" can also imply a character's modesty or humility, not just guilt.
   • Example: He was shamefaced at receiving praise for his achievements, believing he didn’t deserve the compliments.

Synonyms:

• Embarrassed
• Ashamed
• Modest
• Guilty
• Abashed

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Idioms Related to Shame:

  • "To hang one's head in shame" - to feel very embarrassed or ashamed.

• Phrasal Verbs:

  • While there isn’t a direct phrasal verb for "shamefaced," you might use phrases like:

Summary:

"Shamefaced" describes a feeling of embarrassment or guilt and is often used to depict someone who is visibly affected by their actions.

Academic

Adjective

1. showing a sense of guilt
   • a guilty look
   • the hangdog and shamefaced air of the retreating enemy- Eric Linklater
2. showing a sense of shame
3. extremely modest or shy
   • cheerfully bearing reproaches but shamefaced at praise- H.O.Taylor

Synonyms

• guilty
• hangdog
• shamed
• sheepish