our fault

USAGE SUMMARY

'our fault' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe any mistake, blunder, or mistake which is the fault of you and someone else. For example, "The accident was our fault; we should have been more careful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's not our fault".

The New York Times

That's our fault".

The New York Times

So it's our fault.

The New York Times

"It's our fault.

The New York Times

Completely our fault.

The New York Times

But that's our fault.

The New York Times - Sports

It's our fault, too".

The New York Times

That's not our fault.

The New Yorker

That, friends, is our fault.

The New York Times

Translation: Not our fault!

The New York Times

Was it our fault?

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "our fault", clearly state what specific actions or omissions led to the issue, providing context and demonstrating accountability.

Common error

Don't use "our fault" without explaining the specific reasons why you and others are responsible. Vague statements can seem evasive or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "our fault" functions as a noun phrase that indicates shared responsibility or culpability. It's commonly used to acknowledge a mistake or error made by a group, as evidenced by the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "our fault" is a commonly used phrase to acknowledge shared responsibility for a mistake or negative outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. While the phrase is versatile, it's important to use it with clear context, specifying the reasons behind the shared responsibility. As shown by the Ludwig examples, this phrase can be used in many cases in the news, formal or business situations. To sound more formal, alternatives like "we take responsibility" can be used. Remember that using "our fault" implies shared culpability; ensure it accurately reflects the situation to maintain sincerity and avoid deflecting blame.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are to blame

This alternative directly assigns blame to the group, using a more straightforward tone.

it's on us

A more informal way of accepting responsibility, implying that the consequences rest with the speakers.

we take responsibility

A formal declaration of accepting accountability for the situation.

we are responsible

A direct statement of accountability, suitable for formal or informal settings.

we messed up

An informal and direct admission of error.

the mistake was ours

Focuses on the error itself and ascribes it to the group.

we erred

A more formal way of admitting a mistake.

we were in the wrong

Acknowledges that the group's actions were incorrect or inappropriate.

the responsibility lies with us

Emphasizes that the group is the primary party accountable for the outcome.

we shoulder the blame

This phrase emphasizes the burden of accepting responsibility.

FAQs

How do I use "our fault" in a sentence?

Use "our fault" to acknowledge shared responsibility for a mistake or negative outcome. For example, "The project's failure was "our fault" due to inadequate planning and communication."

What's the difference between "our fault" and "my fault"?

"Our fault" indicates that the responsibility is shared among a group of people, while "my fault" acknowledges individual responsibility. Choosing between them depends on who is accountable for the situation.

What can I say instead of "our fault" to sound more formal?

You can use phrases like "we take responsibility", "we are accountable", or "we acknowledge our error" as more formal alternatives to "our fault".

Is it ever inappropriate to say "our fault"?

It can be inappropriate if the responsibility clearly lies with one individual and not the group. In such cases, using "our fault" might seem like an attempt to deflect blame. Make sure you consider alternatives like "my fault".