Fault: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to denote a responsibility for a problem or mistake, attributing blame to someone or something. It can also refer to an imperfection in someone's character.

• It was my fault that we missed the bus.
• She has a lot of good qualities, but impatience is her biggest fault.

Refers to a flaw or imperfection in an item, product, or system. This term is commonly used in technical, manufacturing, or quality control contexts.

• The car was recalled due to a defect in the brake system.
• There was a defect in the software that caused it to crash.

Describes a mistake or incorrect action, often occurring in computational, academic, or professional settings. It's less about personal blame and more about the incorrect nature of an action or result.

• There was an error in the calculation.
• She spotted an error in the report.

A broad term that can refer to any incorrect or misguided action, judgment, or decision. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• I made a mistake in the address.
• It was a mistake to trust him.

Used to indicate an error or flaw in something or someone. Commonly used in everyday conversations to point out mistakes or weaknesses.

• It's not my fault that the project failed.
• The machine malfunctioned because of a manufacturing fault.

Indicates the state or fact of having a duty to deal with something or someone. It does not necessarily imply a negative situation.

• He took full responsibility for the team's performance.
• It's your responsibility to take care of your own health.

Used when someone thinks another person is responsible for something bad or wrong. It can often carry a negative emotion.

• She tried to blame her brother for breaking the vase.
• Don't blame him for the accident; it was an honest mistake.

Typically used in legal or formal contexts to indicate responsibility for wrongdoing or a crime. This term has a strong connotation of guilt.

• The court examined the evidence to determine his culpability in the fraud.
• Her culpability in the company's collapse was undeniable.

Used when identifying a flaw or error for which someone is responsible. Often used in discussions about mistakes.

• It was her fault that the project deadline was missed
• This machine has a fault that needs to be fixed

Used to indicate recognition or acceptance of a fact or situation, often neutrally or positively. Typically used in formal contexts.

• He acknowledged the effort of his team in the meeting
• She acknowledged that she might have made a mistake

Used when someone reluctantly accepts that something is true, especially something bad or undesirable. Has a slightly negative connotation.

• He admitted that he was wrong about the forecast
• She admitted to feeling a bit nervous before the exam

Used when revealing a personal or secret fact, often related to guilt or wrongdoing. Stronger and more emotional than 'admit'.

• She finally confessed to cheating on the test
• He confessed his feelings towards her after years of silence