at fault

Idioms  

1. Responsible for a mistake, trouble, or failure; deserving blame. For example, At least three cars were involved in the accident, so it was hard to determine which driver was at fault, or He kept missing the target and wondered if the sight on his new rifle was at fault. In Britain this usage was formerly considered incorrect but is now acceptable; in America it has been widespread since the mid-1800s. Also see in the wrong.

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Example Sentences

The company denied it was at fault in some cases and admitted it was at fault in others, often saying it was due to issues with specific adjusters.

From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2026

But sources told the New York Times that “outdated targeting data” may have been the cause and the U.S. was at fault.

From Salon • Mar. 14, 2026

Employment agencies deny they are at fault for the abuses, blaming the government for lack of enforcement.

From Barron's • Feb. 16, 2026

The governor says he knows who’s at fault.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 9, 2026

He looked quickly about to see whether anything was at fault.

From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams