Blame: meaning, definitions and examples

Blame is often used when someone is being accused of wrongdoing or when assigning responsibility for a negative outcome.

• She tried to blame her coworker for the mistake.
• It's easy to blame others when things go wrong.

Responsibility is used to indicate a duty or obligation to deal with something or take care of someone. It can be positive or neutral.

• You have a responsibility to take care of your own actions.
• With great power comes great responsibility.

Culpability is typically used in more formal or legal contexts, referring to the degree of fault or responsibility for a wrongdoing or crime.

• The court determined his level of culpability in the fraud case.
• Her culpability in the accident was undeniable.

Fault generally refers to a deficiency or a failure in responsibility. It's often used in everyday conversations to point out where something went wrong.

• It was his fault that we missed the train.
• There's no point in finding fault with every little thing.

Used when indicating responsibility for a fault or wrongdoing in a general sense, often without concrete proof.

• She was quick to blame her brother for the broken vase.
• Don't blame me if you miss the bus!

Used when formally charging someone with a wrongdoing or crime, implying strong belief or evidence.

• He was accused of stealing money from the cash register.
• They accused her of cheating on the exam.

Used when emphasizing the responsibility and consequences someone must face for their actions, often in formal or professional settings.

• The company will hold the manager accountable for the project's failure.
• It's important to hold people accountable for their promises.

Used in informal contexts to suggest blame, often when trying to identify who is at fault.

• Everyone pointed the finger at John when the secret was revealed.
• Stop pointing the finger at others and take responsibility for your actions.