Shameful - this is a shame!

In an open society, any action or word is evaluated by a person not only from the position of his own desires. The key role is played by the opinion of others, secular or religious morality, the relevance of the perfect in the context of a specific situation. There will always be someone to say: this is shameful and unworthy. But how did the capacious characteristic that has been preserved in the language to this day? The vitality of the definition under the influx of borrowing contributed to its relevance!

Who is spying and how?

Tracing the exact etymology can be difficult. Few of the young generation can explain: shameful - how is it? Dahl hurries to help. In his dictionaries, there is a reference to the verb "to shut up" as the primary source, which is decomposed into meanings:

  • to look somewhere;
  • observe the secretive;
  • notice misconduct and stuff.

In a figurative sense, it was not so much the process of observation that was meant as the subsequent reaction. Therefore, the second value arose:

  • condemn;
  • blame;
  • blaspheme.

Obviously: the concept under study describes the situation from the point of view of an outside person.

Shameful acts - a reason for condemnation

How is it interpreted now?

The dialect is very popular. You can hear the word "shameful" both as an independent answer and as part of ornate phrases. It gives some sophistication, makes the statement more weighty due to a bit of vintage sound. Its basic meaning is:

  1. assessment of actions as shameful;
  2. synonym for "indecent, shameful."

A diligent student does not want to write off or ask parents for help. A good employee will certainly complete the report today, does not shift responsibility to colleagues. The boss will not blame subordinates or get involved with corruption schemes. Why? For them it’s shameful, after such an offense they will not be able to look into the eyes of others.

In the form of an adjective, the definition was also used in relation to illegitimate children, because conception outside the family was considered a sin. Moreover, a colorful epithet in rare cases was used instead of the middle name of such bastards.

Shame is bad

When is it appropriate these days?

An organic complement to the vocabulary of modern man. The traditional “shameful” is not an outdated concept, but an old one! It ennobles speech and demonstrates the erudition of the speaker, his mind. In addition, in any situation, the word emphasizes the presence of a serious moral basis with which any person acquires a fair advantage. It’s much easier to know: a comrade will never betray and will try his best so as not to smash his face in the dirt.


All Articles