Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈbleɪmˌwɜːrði/

Definitions

• Adjective: Deserving of blame or responsibility for a wrongdoing or fault.
• Adjective: Attributable to fault or error; accountable for an adverse outcome.

Usage Examples

• "His actions were deemed blameworthy by the jury, leading to his conviction."
• "She felt blameworthy for the team's failure, even though it was a collective effort."
• "The manager’s blameworthy decisions led to a significant loss for the company."

Etymology

The word "blameworthy" is formed by combining the noun "blame" with the adjective suffix "-worthy," which indicates that someone or something is deserving of the specified quality. "Blame" originates from Old French "blamer," meaning to reproach or criticize, which itself comes from the Latin "blamare," meaning "to blame" or "to reprimand." The suffix "-worthy" comes from Old English "weorth," meaning "worthy" or "deserving."

Synonyms

• Guilty
• Culpable
• Responsible
• Accountable
• At fault

Antonyms

• Innocent
• Blameless
• Exonerated
• Faultless
• Unaccountable

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "blameworthy" can vary by accent, with the primary stress typically on the first syllable in General American English (/ˈbleɪmˌwɜːrði/) and on the first syllable in Received Pronunciation (/ˈbleɪmˌwɜːði/). In some regions, the "r" sound may be less pronounced or completely silent in non-rhotic accents.

Historical Usage

The word "blameworthy" has been used in English since at least the 16th century. It was initially employed in legal and moral contexts to describe someone deserving of blame for a wrongdoing. Over time, its use expanded into broader social and cultural discussions, particularly in relation to ethics and accountability. In legal systems, it was often used to determine the degree of responsibility an individual had in causing harm or damage, with consequences that could include punishment or reparation.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of being "blameworthy" is culturally nuanced and varies across societies. In some cultures, communal responsibility may diminish the emphasis on individual blame, while in others, the concept of personal fault is a key moral consideration. Legal systems also differ in their approach to assigning blameworthiness, with some focusing on intent and others on outcome. In Western cultures, especially in judicial settings, blameworthiness is often a critical factor in determining guilt and the appropriate punishment, while in collectivist societies, a more nuanced understanding of responsibility may prevail.

More Information

Blameworthiness is a critical concept in moral philosophy, law, and ethics, often used to assess an individual’s responsibility for a negative event or outcome. It is rooted in ideas of accountability and guilt, reflecting the degree to which one’s actions are judged to be deserving of criticism or sanction. The word remains central to discussions of justice and fairness, where an individual’s level of blameworthiness can significantly affect the consequences they face, both socially and legally. Understanding blameworthiness requires considering context, intent, and the impact of an individual's actions.