zich schamen
to be ashamed, to feel embarrassed
Intermediate Verb
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Pronunciation
/zɪx ˈsxaː.mən/
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Cultural Note
Zich schamen is a reflexive verb, requiring a reflexive pronoun that changes with the subject. The expression 'schaam je!' (shame on you!) is used to scold, while 'ik schaam me dood' (I'm dying of embarrassment, literally 'I shame myself dead') is a common hyperbolic expression.
📝 Example Sentences
Hij schaamt zich voor zijn gedrag van gisteren.
He is ashamed of his behavior from yesterday.
Schaam je niet om hulp te vragen.
Don't be ashamed to ask for help.
Ik schaamde me dood toen dat gebeurde.
I was dying of embarrassment when that happened.