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"Blame" vs "accuse": understanding the difference
Reviewed and edited by 
Anwar Kareem 12/01/2025, 04:13
Anwar Kareem 12/01/2025, 04:13English.me team member
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?
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.
- 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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