What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
culpability
Example
The company's culpability for the environmental damage was undeniable. [culpability: noun]
Example
The investigation aimed to determine the culpability of the driver in the accident. [culpability: noun]
guilt
Example
She felt overwhelming guilt for lying to her friend. [guilt: noun]
Example
He admitted his guilt in the theft of the jewelry. [guilt: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Guilt is more commonly used than culpability in everyday language. Guilt is a universal emotion that people experience in various situations, while culpability is a more specific term used in legal or formal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between culpability and guilt?
Culpability is typically associated with a formal and legal tone, while guilt can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a more versatile word.