accept the blame

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "accept the blame" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone acknowledges responsibility for a mistake or wrongdoing. Example: "After reviewing the situation, I have to accept the blame for the project's failure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

To accept the blame.

The Guardian

Cameron is foolish to accept the blame for closing them.

The Guardian - Opinion

Meanwhile, Valentine is left to accept the blame, which he willingly did.

The New York Times - Sports

The police strongly deny pressuring drivers to accept the blame in any automobile accident.

The New York Times

I accept the blame for that, but I would do it again," he said.

The Washington Post

The features of the killer woman loom overbearingly; let her accept the blame".

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Ryan deflected the responsibility, accepting the blame.

The New York Times - Sports

Rauch (3-2) accepthe the blame for letting the Mets' lead evaporate in the eighth.

The New York Times - Sports

A few minutes later, Turner accepted the blame, saying he had cheated too close to second.

The New York Times

Mr Tenet accepted the blame, though he hasn't fallen on his sword.

The Economist

It was Kendrick's ball, but Hunter played the good teammate and accepted the blame.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "accept the blame", be specific about what you are taking responsibility for. Vague statements can lack sincerity.

Common error

Do not use "accept the blame" as a prelude to deflecting or sharing the responsibility. True acceptance means acknowledging your role without conditions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "accept the blame" functions as a verb phrase where 'accept' is the verb indicating the action of taking on something and 'the blame' is a noun phrase referring to the responsibility for a fault or error. Ludwig provides many examples of its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

11%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "accept the blame" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression to acknowledge responsibility for a fault or error. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While alternatives like "take responsibility" or "own up to the mistake" exist, "accept the blame" specifically implies taking responsibility for something negative. To use the phrase effectively, be specific about what you're accepting responsibility for and avoid using it as a prelude to shifting the responsibility. Understanding the nuances of this phrase will enhance clarity and sincerity in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take responsibility

This alternative emphasizes the act of acknowledging duty for something, not necessarily a negative action.

take ownership

Similar to "take responsibility", but implies a deeper level of personal commitment.

shoulder the responsibility

Implies bearing a burden or obligation, suggesting a heavier load of accountability.

bear the responsibility

Similar to "shoulder the responsibility", but slightly less emphatic.

own up to the mistake

This is more informal and specifically refers to admitting an error.

admit fault

Focuses on acknowledging one's role in a negative outcome or error.

take the fall

Suggests accepting consequences, often implying someone else is also at fault.

acknowledge culpability

A more formal way of admitting guilt or responsibility for wrongdoing.

face the music

An idiomatic expression that means to confront the unpleasant consequences of one's actions.

be held accountable

Focuses on the aspect of being answerable for one's actions or decisions.

FAQs

What does it mean to "accept the blame"?

To "accept the blame" means to acknowledge responsibility for a mistake, wrongdoing, or negative outcome.

How can I use "accept the blame" in a sentence?

You can use it like this: "The manager decided to "take responsibility" and "accept the blame" for the project's failure."

What are some alternatives to "accept the blame"?

Alternatives include "take responsibility", "admit fault", or "own up to the mistake" depending on the context.

Is "accept the blame" the same as "take responsibility"?

While similar, "accept the blame" often implies accepting responsibility for something negative, whereas "take responsibility" can be more general.