Which option provides the correct definition of chagrin?

• A. A sense of pride after success.
• B. A quick wave of relief.
• C. A moderate level of curiosity.
• D. A feeling of being very annoyed, disappointed, or embarrassed because of failure, disappointment, or humiliation.

Answer: (D)

Chagrin is a strong feeling of being annoyed, disappointed, or embarrassed because something didn’t go as hoped or because of a failure or humiliation. It captures that uneasy mix of irritation and embarrassment that follows a letdown, not just mild disappointment or curiosity. So the definition that describes a person feeling very annoyed, disappointed, or embarrassed due to failure fits best. It’s typically stronger than simple disappointment and often carries a sense of humiliation before others. For example, after realizing a mistake in front of colleagues, she felt chagrin and apologized. This isn’t pride after success, nor a quick wave of relief, nor a mild curiosity—the emotion is tied to an unfavorable outcome and the embarrassment that goes with it.