I am guilty

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I am guilty" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when admitting to a wrongdoing or crime, often in a legal or personal context. Example: "After much reflection, I have come to terms with my actions and I must say, I am guilty of the mistakes I made."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I am guilty, I am guilty.

The New Yorker

"I am guilty.

The New York Times - Magazine

I am guilty of this myself.

The New York Times

I know I am guilty on this.

Independent

I am guilty of it sometimes, too.

The New York Times

I am guilty of these habits myself.

The New York Times

I am guilty of that and more.

The New Yorker

I am guilty of it myself.

The New York Times

(And, of this, I am guilty).

The Guardian - Opinion

"I am guilty," the accused villager, Zizamele Maqi, whispered.

The New York Times

"I don't believe that I am guilty," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I am guilty" to express sincere remorse and willingness to accept consequences for actions.

Common error

Avoid using "I am guilty" without clearly stating what you are admitting guilt for. Be specific about the actions or omissions you are taking responsibility for to avoid ambiguity or misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I am guilty" functions as a declarative statement, admitting responsibility for a wrongdoing. It serves as a direct acknowledgment of culpability, similar to examples found by Ludwig where individuals confess to errors or crimes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I am guilty" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase, as affirmed by Ludwig, to admit responsibility for a wrongdoing. It functions as a declarative statement to express acceptance of blame. While generally neutral in register, it can become formal in legal or professional contexts. The phrase appears most commonly in news and media sources. When using this phrase, be specific about the actions you're admitting to, to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "I acknowledge my fault" or "I take responsibility for my actions". Overall, it is a clear and effective way to convey culpability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

It was my fault

A direct and straightforward admission of responsibility.

I am to blame

A simpler way of stating culpability.

I am the one at fault

Highlights that the speaker is the cause of the problem.

I admit to the wrongdoing

This alternative specifically mentions acknowledging an act of misconduct.

I acknowledge my fault

This emphasizes the recognition of a mistake or wrongdoing.

I take responsibility for my actions

This shifts the focus to accepting accountability for one's deeds.

I am responsible

This emphasizes the duty to account for one's actions.

I confess to being culpable

This alternative uses more formal language to convey guilt.

I own up to my mistake

This uses a more informal, colloquial expression for admitting an error.

I erred

A concise, formal way of admitting to making a mistake.

FAQs

How can I use "I am guilty" in a sentence?

You can use "I am guilty" to admit responsibility for a wrongdoing. For example, "After reviewing the evidence, "I am guilty" of negligence in this matter."

What's a more formal alternative to "I am guilty"?

A more formal alternative is "I acknowledge my culpability" or "I accept responsibility". These phrases are suitable for legal or professional settings.

Is it ever appropriate to use "I am guilty" sarcastically?

While it's possible to use "I am guilty" sarcastically, be cautious. Sarcasm can easily be misinterpreted, especially in written communication. Ensure the context clearly indicates your intent.

What's the difference between "I am guilty" and "I feel guilty"?

"I am guilty" is a statement of fact, admitting responsibility. "I feel guilty" expresses an emotion, indicating remorse or regret, whether or not one is actually culpable. Feeling guilty doesn't necessarily mean "I am guilty" of anything.