it is our fault

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is our fault" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when taking responsibility for a mistake or error in a situation. Example: "After reviewing the project outcomes, we realized that it is our fault that the deadline was missed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

"It is our fault, as Christians, that we are in the state we're in.

Huffington Post

The language is minimalist, there's very little mystery (the culprits are always found) and the investigator herself is rather dull.Is the point of Ms Maraini's grey prose that it is our fault if selling Albanian children to pimps in Milan no longer moves us?

The Economist

It is our fault for introducing them.

The New York Times

Some of it is our fault.

The New York Times

But it is our fault for being surprised.

The Washington Post

"If it doesn't succeed, it is our fault".

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

"It's our fault.

The New York Times

So it's our fault.

The New York Times

It's our fault, too".

The New York Times

"It was our fault.

The New York Times

And it's our fault.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is our fault" to directly acknowledge a mistake or failure when your group or organization is responsible. This demonstrates accountability and transparency.

Common error

Avoid using "it is our fault" sarcastically or to deflect blame onto others within the group. This undermines trust and can damage relationships.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is our fault" functions as a statement of admission or acknowledgment of responsibility for an error, mistake, or undesirable outcome. Ludwig provides examples where this phrase is used to directly accept blame for various situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is our fault" is a direct and commonly used expression to acknowledge responsibility for a mistake or failure. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use in diverse contexts, primarily in news and media. While alternatives such as "we are to blame" or "we take responsibility" exist, the key is to use the phrase genuinely to foster trust and demonstrate accountability. Misusing it sarcastically or to deflect blame can have negative consequences. As seen from Ludwig's examples, it’s crucial to ensure that the admission of fault is followed by actions to rectify the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are to blame

Uses a more direct expression of blame.

we are at fault

A slightly more formal way of expressing blame.

we are responsible

Emphasizes responsibility rather than direct fault.

the mistake is ours

Focuses on the ownership of the error.

we take the blame

Highlights the acceptance of culpability.

we made an error

Focuses on the action that led to the problem.

the fault lies with us

Shifts the focus to where the fault resides.

the responsibility is on our shoulders

Highlights the burden of accountability.

we messed up

A more informal and direct way of admitting error.

we dropped the ball

An idiomatic expression for failing to fulfill a responsibility.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "it is our fault"?

Use "it is our fault" when you or the group you represent has made a mistake and you want to take responsibility. It's a clear and direct way to acknowledge error.

What are some alternatives to saying "it is our fault"?

You can use alternatives like "we are to blame", "we are responsible", or "the mistake is ours" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "it is our fault" too strong of a statement in a professional setting?

While direct, "it is our fault" can be appropriate in professional settings to show accountability. However, consider the context and the audience. In some cases, a more nuanced approach like "we take responsibility" may be preferable.

Can "it is our fault" be used to deflect blame?

While the phrase inherently implies taking responsibility, using it sarcastically or without genuine intent can be perceived as deflecting blame. Ensure your tone and subsequent actions align with the sentiment of taking ownership.