What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
blame
Example
Don't blame yourself for the accident. It wasn't your fault. [blame: verb]
Example
The teacher placed the blame on the students for not studying enough. [blame: noun]
fault
Example
It's not your fault that the project didn't succeed. We all made mistakes. [fault: noun]
Example
She faults herself for not being more careful with her belongings. [fault: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Blame is more commonly used than fault in everyday language. Blame is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while fault is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between blame and fault?
Both blame and fault can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, blame may carry a stronger negative connotation and is often associated with more emotional or accusatory language, while fault is more neutral and objective.