A child is sitting alone on the floor, hunched over and hiding their face completely in their hands, conveying deep shame or embarrassment.

avergonzado

ah-ver-gon-SAH-doh

AdjectivemA2

ashamed?feeling shame or guilt,embarrassed?feeling awkward or self-conscious

Also:shamefaced?looking visibly embarrassed

📝 In Action

Estaba muy avergonzado después de caerse frente a todos.

He was very embarrassed after falling in front of everyone.

Ella se sintió avergonzada por el comentario que hizo.

She felt ashamed of the comment she made.

Los niños se quedaron en silencio, avergonzados de su travesura.

The children stayed silent, embarrassed by their mischief.

Word Connections

Synonyms

apenado (distressed/sad)
sonrojado (blushing)

Antonyms

orgulloso (proud)
satisfecho (satisfied)

Common Collocations

estar avergonzado – to be embarrassed/ashamed (state)
ponerse avergonzado – to become embarrassed

💡 Grammar Points

Adjective Agreement

Since this is an adjective, you must change the ending to match the person or thing you are describing: 'avergonzada' (f), 'avergonzados' (m plural), 'avergonzadas' (f plural).

❌ Common Pitfalls

Mixing up the verbs

Mistake: "Soy avergonzado (Using 'ser')"

Correction: Estoy avergonzado (Using 'estar'). Feeling shame is a temporary emotional state, so you must use the verb 'estar' to describe it.

⭐ Usage Tips

Use with 'Estar'

Always pair 'avergonzado' with the verb 'estar' (to be) or 'sentirse' (to feel) because it describes a current emotional condition, not a permanent characteristic.

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: avergonzado

Question 1 of 1

Which sentence correctly uses the feminine plural form of the word?

📚 More Resources

Word Family

avergonzar(to shame/embarrass) - verb

vergüenza(shame/embarrassment) - noun

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'avergonzado' and 'embarazada'?

This is a famous false friend! 'Avergonzado' means 'ashamed' or 'embarrassed.' The Spanish word 'embarazada' (note the extra 'a') means 'pregnant.' Do not confuse them!

Why is 'avergonzado' used with 'estar' and not 'ser'?

'Avergonzado' describes an emotional state that can change—you are embarrassed now, but you won't be forever. We use 'estar' for temporary feelings and conditions.