Spanish Phrase
¿Sientes vergüenza?
Meaning
This phrase is used to ask if someone is experiencing feelings of embarrassment, shyness, or shame. It uses the verb 'sentir' (to feel) followed by the noun 'vergüenza', which can range from mild social awkwardness to a deeper sense of moral shame.
When to use
Use this phrase when you notice someone blushing or acting shy after a public mistake, or when discussing emotional reactions to a specific event. It is appropriate for friends, family, or in psychological contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Sientesvergüenza?
Sentir (Sientes)
This is the second-person singular of 'sentir'. It is a stem-changing verb where the 'e' changes to 'ie' in the present tense.
The Dieresis (ü)
The two dots over the 'u' in vergüenza are called a dieresis. They indicate that the 'u' must be pronounced, unlike in words like 'guerra' where it is silent.
🗨In Conversation
Se me olvidó mi discurso a mitad de la presentación.
I forgot my speech halfway through the presentation.
¿Sientes vergüenza? No te preocupes, estuviste genial de todos modos.
Do you feel embarrassed? Don't worry, you were great anyway.
✕Common Mistakes
¿Sientes embarazado?
'Embarazado' is a false friend that means 'pregnant' in Spanish. Use 'avergonzado' or 'vergüenza' instead.
¿Estás vergüenza?
You cannot 'be' the noun shame; you must use 'sentir' (to feel) or 'tener' (to have) with 'vergüenza'.
↔Alternatives
¿Te da vergüenza?
Does it make you feel shy?
¿Estás avergonzado?
Are you ashamed/embarrassed?
¿Tienes vergüenza?
Do you have shame?
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, 'vergüenza' is a strong social regulator. While it often just means 'shyness' in casual settings, calling someone a 'sinvergüenza' (shameless person) is a common and sometimes sharp critique of their character or behavior.