How to Say "humiliation" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “humiliation” is “humillación” — use 'humillación' when referring to the emotional state of feeling ashamed or embarrassed, or the act of intentionally making someone else feel that way.
English → Spanish
humillación
nounB2general
Use 'humillación' when referring to the emotional state of feeling ashamed or embarrassed, or the act of intentionally making someone else feel that way.
Examples
Él sintió una gran humillación cuando se olvidó de su discurso.
He felt a great humiliation when he forgot his speech.
degradación
nounC1formal
Choose 'degradación' when the context involves a formal loss of rank, status, or honor, often in an official or institutional setting.
Examples
El oficial sufrió una degradación tras el juicio militar.
The officer suffered a demotion after the military trial.
Humillación vs. Degradación
Learners often confuse 'humillación' and 'degradación' by using the former for formal loss of status. Remember that 'humillación' is primarily about shame and embarrassment, while 'degradación' specifically refers to a loss of rank or dignity.
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