Hävettävä

Hävettävä is a Finnish adjective that translates to shameful, embarrassing, or disgraceful in English. It describes a situation, action, or person that evokes a strong feeling of shame or humiliation. The word is derived from the verb "hävetä," which means to be ashamed.

The intensity of "hävettävä" can vary depending on the context. It can be used to describe minor social blunders, such as accidentally spilling a drink at a party, or more serious moral failings, like committing a crime. The feeling associated with "hävettävä" often involves a sense of wanting to hide or disappear due to the perceived negative judgment of others.

In Finnish culture, shame can be a significant social regulator. Actions or behaviors deemed "hävettävä" can lead to social disapproval or ostracism. The concept is deeply ingrained and influences interpersonal relationships and societal norms. For instance, a child might be told their behavior is "hävettävä" to encourage them to act more appropriately.

The term is also used in discussions of personal character and integrity. A person who acts in a way that is considered morally reprehensible might be described as having a "hävettävä" character. Conversely, someone who consistently acts with honor and integrity might be seen as the opposite of "hävettävä." The adjective encapsulates a broad spectrum of negative emotional and social experiences related to shame.