take umbrage

en
en
Change language
Translating...
Find language
العربية الفصحى
Arabic (Standard)
Deutsch
German
Español
Spanish
Français
French
हिन्दी
Hindi
/teɪk ˈʌm.brɪdʒ/
Add to My Dictionary
In My Dictionary
+1
To feel offended by a perceived slight.
Practice using take umbrage in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • Do not take umbrage at his bluntness.
  • She took umbrage at the remark.
  • The editor took umbrage at the accusation.
  • Several guests took umbrage at the joke.
  • He takes umbrage whenever his work is questioned.

Similar words

be offended
take offense
feel affronted

Meanings

Feel insulted

social behavior
formal
To become annoyed or upset because a comment or action seems rude or disrespectful.

Examples

  • She took umbrage at the remark.
  • Do not take umbrage at his bluntness.
  • The editor took umbrage at the accusation.
  • He takes umbrage whenever his work is questioned.
  • Several guests took umbrage at the joke.

Similar words

take offense
feel affronted
be offended

Etymology

Take presents umbrage as something one receives. Umbrage is an old word for offense.

FAQ

What does take umbrage mean?

Take umbrage means to feel offended by a slight.

When is take umbrage used?

It often follows a remark, accusation, or perceived disrespect.

How does take umbrage differ from take offense?

Take offense is everyday language; take umbrage sounds more formal.

How is take umbrage used in a sentence?

She took umbrage at the remark.

Is take umbrage formal?

Yes, it is a formal expression.

Comments & contributions

Know this word from another angle? Add a correction, a nuance, or a usage note. New posts go public after a quick review.
Posting as a guest · Sign in
No comments yet. Be the first to add one.
Look up word or phrase...