blame - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
blame Word Meanings
- to hold someone responsible for a fault
- to accuse or criticize someone
- the responsibility for a fault or wrong
blame Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
blame Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/bleɪm/
US
/bleɪm/
blame Word Etymology
blame = blandus (Old French) + bramer (to lament in Old French); 'blame' comes from the Old French term meaning 'to blame'. Imagine a person pointing an accusing finger at someone while shaking their head in disappointment.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean forward, place my hands on the desk, and push a scene into my head. I blame a coworker in my thoughts, watching the idea move from doubt to certainty. The feeling tightens as I adjust my stance, turning the moment into a choice I want to defend. When I speak, I keep the blame on the surface of the story, letting it steer what I say next.
Real Context
Blame is both a verb and a noun: as a verb, to blame someone means to say they are responsible for a fault, and as a noun, blame refers to the responsibility or the act of accusing. In English, blame often centers on attribution of cause and can be used with for to name the fault ('blame someone for something') or with on in casual speech ('blame it on someone'). It can carry different tones from formal to casual, and it interacts with guilt, responsibility, and accountability. Learners commonly confuse blame with guilt or with accuse, and they may mischoose prepositions or misinterpret passive constructions like 'the blame lies with...'.
Usage Reminders
- Blame is about assigning responsibility, not about expressing sympathy.
- 'Blame someone for something' is the standard pattern.
- Avoid saying 'blame on' in formal writing; use 'blame X for Y' or 'the blame lies with X'.
- 'Take the blame' means to accept responsibility, not necessarily admit fault in all contexts.
- Tone matters: blame can sound harsh; consider alternatives like 'the responsibility lies with' or 'it was caused by'.
Common Misconceptions
- Blame always equals guilt or a moral failing.
- Blame can only target people, never situations or objects.
- You must say 'blame on' with a person in all contexts.
- Blame and accuse are the same; they are interchangeable.
- Taking the blame always means you personally caused the fault.
Thinking Differences
Blame in English is a portable construct for assigning responsibility, with clear collocations (blame someone for something) and the idiom the blame lies with. Learners often default to guilt or to accusing directly, missing the nuance that responsibility can be attributed without emotional charge.
Learning Tips
- memorize common collocations: blame someone for something; blame it on someone
- distinguish blame from guilt; blame = responsibility, guilt = emotion
- learn passive forms: the blame lies with someone
- practice with both direct and indirect objects
- notice tone: blame can sound accusatory; soften when needed
- compare with phrases like 'take the blame' and 'bear the blame'
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'blame'?
A.Eager
B.Fault
C.Confidence
D.Praise
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'blame' used correctly?
A.He blamed himself for the accident.
B.I always blame my friends for my mistakes.
C.She gave him blame for the success of the project.
D.The teacher blamed the students for their hard work.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following words is the most similar to 'blame'?
A.Accuse
B.Praise
C.Forgive
D.Agree
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'blame'?
A.Prosecute
B.Fault
C.Accuse
D.Praise
Step 5: Mastery
In a real-life context, when might someone receive blame?
A.For passing an exam
B.For causing a car accident
C.For completing a project ahead of schedule
D.For helping a friend
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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