Synonyms for

Guilty

Verb / ˈgɪlti: / Another word for guilty — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

feeling responsible for doing something wrong or against the law

Synonyms & similar words

shamed shamefaced innocent hangdog culpable blameworthy responsible answerable errant faulty sinful delinquent criminal convicted condemned shameful regretful remorseful apologetic contrite penitent ashamed chagrined

Synonyms by register

Formal

culpable responsible accountable liable

Informal

to blame at fault in the wrong

Literary

damned sinful transgressing

Antonyms

innocent blameless exonerated acquitted clear guiltless vindicated

Common collocations

  • feel guilty
  • look guilty
  • plead guilty
  • guilty conscience
  • guilty party
  • guilty verdict
  • guilty of murder

Word family

noun guilt
adjective guilty
adverb guiltily

Usage note

Often used in legal contexts, but also for personal feelings of wrongdoing. 'Guilty' describes a state of having committed a crime or an offense, or feeling responsible for something bad.

Example sentences

  1. She pleaded guilty to the charges against her.
  2. He looked guilty when I asked him about the missing cookies.
  3. The judge found the defendant guilty of the crime.
  4. I feel guilty for not studying for the test.
  5. The guilty party will be punished for their actions.

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