Ashamed-Embarrassed | Commonly Confused Words

Ashamed

/əˈʃeɪmd/

Feeling embarrassed or guilty because of something one has done or a quality they possess

And I was so ashamed.'I am not ashamed of myself, Snevellicci is my name;He's ashamed of himself – his sin against her.

/ɪmˈbærəst/

Feeling self-conscious or ashamed about something.

I read out in a somewhat embarrassed voice.He seemed very embarrassed and shy.John Dashwood was a little embarrassed when he heard this news.

Ashamed is linked to a moral failing or a personal wrongdoing that affects one's conscience deeply.
To be embarrassed often arises from a social mishap or awkward situation that is usually not morally charged.
Think of ashamed as a deep, internal feeling possibly related to guilt, whereas embarrassed is more external, often related to what others might think.
Ashamed often suggests a sense of guilt or disgrace, while embarrassed is more about feeling awkward.
You can be embarrassed by a faux pas in company; the feeling is usually temporary, but shame might linger longer and indicate a need for restitution or change.