dishonour: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, literary
Quick answer
What does “dishonour” mean?
A state of shame or loss of respect.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A state of shame or loss of respect; to bring shame or disgrace upon someone or something.
Can refer to a specific act causing disgrace, or the failure to fulfil a promise or obligation (e.g., a financial instrument).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The primary difference is spelling. The American English standard spelling is 'dishonor'. The British English spelling retains the 'u'.
Connotations
Identical in both varieties. Carries strong moral and social weight.
Frequency
More common in formal, legal, literary, or historical contexts in both varieties. The alternative verb 'disgrace' is more frequent in everyday usage.
Grammar
How to Use “dishonour” in a Sentence
dishonour [OBJECT]bring dishonour on/upon [OBJECT]dishonour oneselfVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dishonour” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- He would rather die than dishonour his family name.
- The bank may dishonour the cheque if funds are insufficient.
American English
- The scandal dishonored the entire institution.
- A soldier who deserts his post dishonors the uniform.
adverb
British English
- He acted dishonourably in the business deal.
American English
- The funds were acquired dishonorably.
adjective
British English
- He felt dishonourable for keeping the secret.
- It was a dishonourable discharge from the military.
American English
- She considered his actions dishonorable.
- An agreement obtained by threat is dishonorable.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Used in formal contexts regarding failure to pay ('dishonour a cheque').
Academic
Used in historical, ethical, sociological, or literary analysis to discuss codes of honour and shame.
Everyday
Uncommon in casual speech. Used for serious breaches of trust or moral codes.
Technical
In finance/commerce: to refuse payment on a negotiable instrument (e.g., a bounced cheque).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dishonour”
- Spelling confusion (dishonour vs. dishonor). Using it in informal contexts where 'shame' or 'embarrass' is more appropriate.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is relatively formal and more common in historical, literary, legal, or serious moral contexts. Words like 'shame' or 'disgrace' are used more frequently in everyday language.
'Dishonour' often implies a public loss of respect and violation of an external code (social, familial, military). 'Shame' can be a more personal, internal feeling of guilt or unworthiness, though they often overlap.
Yes, but in a specific sense: to 'dishonour a cheque' or 'bill of exchange' is a formal term meaning the bank refuses to pay it due to insufficient funds or other irregularities.
Use 'dishonour' if you are writing in British, Canadian, Australian, or other Commonwealth English varieties. Use 'dishonor' if you are writing in American English. The pronunciation and meaning are identical.
A state of shame or loss of respect.
Dishonour is usually formal, literary in register.
Dishonour: in British English it is pronounced /dɪsˈɒnə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /dɪsˈɑːnər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “a badge of dishonour”
- “die in dishonour”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'DIS' (not/away from) + 'HONOUR' (respect). It's the removal or opposite of honour.
Conceptual Metaphor
DISHONOUR IS A STAIN/MARK (on one's reputation/family name).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the LEAST formal synonym for 'dishonour' (verb)?