The 'Mortifying Ordeal of Being Known' is a viral catchphrase derived from a 2013 New York Times essay titled 'I Know What You're Thinking' by author Tim Kreider. The original context discusses the trade-off between the desire to be loved and the inherent vulnerability required to be truly understood by another person. On platforms like Tumblr and Twitter, the phrase evolved into a relatable shorthand for the discomfort of being perceived or the regret felt after oversharing in social situations. It is frequently used as a reaction to any moment where a person feels exposed—ranging from receiving a sincere compliment to realizing someone has seen their niche internet interests—blending literary angst with modern social anxiety.