C1noun2K

Guilt

UK /["/ɡɪlt/"]/US /["/ɡɪlt/"]/

Definition

the unhappy feelings caused by knowing or thinking that you have done something wrong

In simple words: A feeling of being bad or wrong about something you did.

Examples

  • She felt overwhelming guilt after realizing she had forgotten her friend's birthday.
  • The defendant confessed, hoping to lessen the guilt he carried inside.
  • Guilt can sometimes motivate people to apologize and make amends.
  • Despite the evidence of guilt, the suspect maintained innocence.
  • In psychology, guilt is often studied as an emotion related to morality and responsibility.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts, often when discussing feelings of remorse or regret. It may not be suitable for lighthearted conversations.

Grammar pattern

feel + guilt

Memory hint

Think of 'guilt' like a heavy backpack making you feel weighed down by your actions.

Collocations

  • intense
  • overwhelming
  • terrible
  • pang
  • twinge
  • bear
  • carry
  • be consumed with
  • overwhelm somebody
  • wash over somebody
  • consume somebody
  • complex
  • feelings
  • trip
  • guilt about
  • guilt at
  • guilt over
  • a burden of guilt
  • a feeling of guilt
  • a sense of guilt
  • admit
  • confess
  • deny
  • lie
  • an admission of guilt
  • proof of guilt
  • admit
  • confess
  • deny
  • lie
  • an admission of guilt
  • proof of guilt

Synonyms

  • remorse
  • regret
  • contrition
  • penitence
  • shame

Antonyms

  • innocence
  • blamelessness

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'guilt' with 'guilty' — 'guilt' is a noun, 'guilty' is an adjective.
  • Using 'guilt' when 'regret' is more appropriate.
  • Omitting 'of' when saying 'guilt of something' instead of 'guilt for something'.