Culpable: meaning, definitions and examples

Culpable is used when someone is considered to be responsible for something bad or wrong, but not necessarily with legal implications. It often implies a moral fault or responsibility.

• The committee found him culpable for the project's failure.
• Her actions were seen as culpable negligence.

Guilty is often used when someone has been found or declared to have committed a crime or moral wrongdoing. It has a strong legal connotation and is also used to express personal feelings of guilt.

• The jury found him guilty of theft.
• She felt guilty for lying to her friend.

Blameworthy is used in situations where someone deserves blame for a mistake or wrongdoing. It carries a moral connotation and is often used in ethical discussions.

• The accident was the result of blameworthy conduct on the part of the driver.
• His behavior was highly blameworthy and disappointing.

Responsible is a more neutral term used to indicate someone is in charge of or accountable for something. It is used in both positive and negative contexts, without strong moral or legal implications.

• He is responsible for the safety of the team.
• She was held responsible for the error in the report.