Meaning
shame, disgrace, discredit, scandal
- shame, embarrassment
- disgrace, scandal
In a sentence
Che vergogna arrivare così tardi alla festa!
How embarrassing to arrive so late to the party!
Non c'è vergogna nel chiedere aiuto.
There's no shame in asking for help.
Hai provato vergogna dopo quella bugia?
Did you feel ashamed after that lie?
Word forms (2)
| Word | Word forms |
|---|---|
| vergogna | feminine · singular |
| vergogne | feminine · plural |
Usage notes
- Use vergogna for a strong moral feeling; imbarazzo is milder and fits awkward social situations better.
- Common pattern: avere vergogna di + noun/infinitive, or vergognarsi di + noun/infinitive. Learners often mix the two structures.
- Che vergogna! is a very common exclamation meaning 'What a shame!' or 'How disgraceful!' depending on context.