Shame vs. disgrace: what’s the difference?
The short answer
Shame usually focuses on the internal emotional response someone feels due to their own actions or perceived faults, while disgrace more often refers to an external condition where someone’s reputation is damaged in the eyes of others.
What they have in common
Both shame and disgrace refer to negative feelings or states associated with loss of respect, honor, or esteem, typically due to an action that is considered wrong or improper.
Examples
shame
- She felt deep shame after lying to her friend.
- His face turned red with shame.
- The shame of failing the test stayed with him for weeks.
disgrace
- The politician left office in disgrace after the scandal.
- Cheating in the competition brought disgrace to the team.
- He was disgraced in front of his peers for breaking the rules.
Which one is more common?
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