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"Blame" vs "accuse": understanding the difference

Reviewed and edited by

Anwar Kareem 12/01/2025, 04:13

English.me team member

Blame and accuse. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "blame" and "accuse" involve attributing responsibility for a fault or wrongdoing to someone. They are used when holding someone accountable for a negative action or outcome.

What is different?

"Blame" is more general and can refer to attributing responsibility informally or without direct confrontation. "Accuse" is more specific and formal, often implying a direct claim or charge against someone, especially in legal or serious contexts.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for blame) and accuse

Examples of usage

Blame

She blamed the traffic for her lateness.
They blamed the coach for the team's loss.
He blames himself for not speaking up earlier.

Accuse

The prosecutor accused the defendant of fraud.
She was accused of breaking the company's policy.
They accused him of stealing the documents.

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