1.
blunder; disgrace; gaffe; failure
An embarrassing mistake or failure, especially in a public or professional context. Implies loss of face or reputation. Composed of 失 (lose) + 態 (appearance, state).
大きな失態を犯してしまった。
I committed a major blunder.
大臣の失態がニュースになった。
The minister's blunder made the news.
二度とこのような失態を繰り返さないように注意する。
I will be careful not to repeat this kind of blunder again.
USAGE:
失態 is often used in formal or news contexts to describe professional mistakes by politicians, companies, or public figures. It carries a stronger sense of embarrassment and loss of face than simple 失敗 (failure).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 失態を犯す (to commit a blunder)
- 失態を演じる (to make a spectacle of one's failure)
- 失態を繰り返す (to repeat a blunder)
- 大失態 (major blunder)
NUANCE:
失態 implies public embarrassment, while 失敗 is a more neutral term for failure. 醜態 is even stronger, implying disgraceful or shameful behavior.