Top 45 Slang For Guilty – Meaning & Usage

Feeling guilty about something? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with the top slang for guilty that will have you nodding in recognition. From “guilt trip” to “caught red-handed,” our team has rounded up the most relatable and trendy terms to describe that familiar feeling of remorse. Dive into this listicle and never feel lost for words when expressing your guilty conscience again!

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1. Caught red-handed

This phrase refers to being caught in the midst of doing something wrong or illegal. It implies that the guilt is obvious and undeniable.

For example, “The police caught the thief red-handed with the stolen goods.”
In a conversation about cheating, someone might say, “He was caught red-handed copying answers during the exam.”
A parent might use this phrase when scolding a child who was caught eating cookies before dinner: “I caught you red-handed with your hand in the cookie jar!”

2. Feeling the heat

This phrase describes the feeling of being anxious or stressed due to guilt or suspicion. It implies that someone is experiencing the consequences or scrutiny of their actions.

For instance, “After the scandal broke, the politician was definitely feeling the heat from the public.”
In a discussion about a cheating scandal, someone might say, “The students involved must be feeling the heat from the school administration.”
A person who is being questioned by the police might say, “I’m feeling the heat, but I swear I didn’t do anything wrong!”

3. Guilt trip

This term refers to a situation where someone intentionally tries to make another person feel guilty. It often involves emotional manipulation to make someone feel responsible or remorseful.

For example, “My mom always lays on a guilt trip when I don’t visit her often enough.”
In a discussion about toxic relationships, someone might say, “He constantly puts her on a guilt trip to control her.”
A person might use this phrase to describe a friend who tries to make them feel guilty for not lending them money: “She always puts me on a guilt trip whenever she needs something.”

4. In the wrong

This phrase is used to describe someone who is guilty or responsible for a mistake or wrongdoing. It implies that someone has done something morally or legally incorrect.

For instance, “He admitted he was in the wrong for spreading false rumors.”
In a conversation about a disagreement, someone might say, “Both parties need to acknowledge when they’re in the wrong.”
A person might use this phrase to apologize for their actions: “I realize now that I was in the wrong,“I realize now that I was in the wrong, and I’m sorry for what I did.”

5. On edge

Although not specific to guilt, this phrase can be used to describe someone who is feeling uneasy or restless due to guilt or suspicion. It implies a state of heightened sensitivity or unease.

For example, “She’s been on edge ever since she found out about the secret.”
In a discussion about a crime investigation, someone might say, “The suspect seemed on edge during the interrogation.”
A person might use this phrase to describe their own feelings of guilt: “I’ve been on edge ever since I lied to my friend.”

6. Dirty

When someone is described as “dirty” in the context of guilt, it means that they are feeling guilty or have done something wrong. This term is often used to describe someone who has engaged in immoral or unethical behavior.

For example, a person might say, “I feel dirty for lying to my friend.”
In a discussion about cheating, someone might admit, “I felt dirty after I cheated on my partner.”
Another person might confess, “I did something dirty and now I can’t stop thinking about it.”

7. Busted

When someone is “busted” in the context of guilt, it means that they have been caught doing something wrong or illegal. This term is often used to describe someone who has been discovered in the act of committing a crime or engaging in dishonest behavior.

For instance, a person might say, “I got busted for stealing candy from the store.”
In a story about getting caught cheating, someone might say, “I was busted when my teacher caught me with my cheat sheet.”
Another person might share, “I got busted for lying to my parents and now I’m grounded.”

8. Ashamed

When someone is described as “ashamed” in the context of guilt, it means that they feel embarrassed or regretful about something they have done. This term is often used to describe someone who is feeling guilty about their actions or behavior.

For example, a person might say, “I’m ashamed of how I treated my friend.”
In a discussion about cheating, someone might admit, “I felt so ashamed after I cheated on my partner.”
Another person might confess, “I did something I’m ashamed of and now I can’t look at myself in the mirror.”

9. Remorseful

When someone is described as “remorseful” in the context of guilt, it means that they feel deep regret or sorrow for something they have done. This term is often used to describe someone who is genuinely sorry for their actions and wants to make amends.

For instance, a person might say, “I’m remorseful for the pain I caused my friend.”
In a story about cheating, someone might admit, “I felt so remorseful after I cheated on my partner.”
Another person might share, “I did something I deeply regret and now I’m trying to make things right.”

10. Culprit

When someone is referred to as the “culprit” in the context of guilt, it means that they are the person responsible for a particular wrongdoing or crime. This term is often used to identify the person who is guilty of a specific act.

For example, a detective might say, “We have identified the culprit behind the robbery.”
In a discussion about a prank gone wrong, someone might say, “I was the culprit who pulled the prank and now I have to face the consequences.”
Another person might confess, “I’m the culprit who ate all the cookies and now everyone is mad at me.”

11. Blameworthy

This term refers to someone who is considered responsible or deserving of blame for a particular action or situation.

For example, “The blameworthy party failed to fulfill their obligations.”
In a legal context, a judge might declare, “The defendant is blameworthy for their actions.”
A person discussing a moral dilemma might say, “It is important to hold blameworthy individuals accountable for their choices.”

12. Conscience-stricken

This term describes someone who is deeply affected by feelings of guilt or remorse, often to the point of distress.

For instance, “She was conscience-stricken after realizing the consequences of her actions.”
A person might say, “I couldn’t sleep last night, I was feeling conscience-stricken about what I did.”
Someone reflecting on their past behavior might admit, “I’ve been conscience-stricken about that decision for years.”

13. Repentant

This term describes someone who feels genuine remorse for their actions and is actively seeking forgiveness or making amends.

For example, “He was repentant for his past mistakes and vowed to change.”
A person might say, “I can see that she is truly repentant for what she did.”
Someone discussing personal growth might say, “Becoming repentant is an important step towards becoming a better person.”

14. At fault

This term is used to describe someone who is considered responsible or to blame for a mistake or wrongdoing.

For instance, “The driver was at fault for the car accident.”
In a discussion about a failed project, someone might say, “The team leader was at fault for the miscommunication.”
A person might admit, “I made a mistake and I am fully at fault for the consequences.”

15. Wrongdoer

This term refers to someone who has committed a wrongful or illegal act, often implying a sense of moral or legal culpability.

For example, “The wrongdoer was apprehended and brought to justice.”
In a discussion about ethics, someone might say, “We must hold wrongdoers accountable for their actions.”
A person might say, “I can’t believe he turned out to be a wrongdoer after all the trust we placed in him.”

16. Sinful

This term refers to behavior or actions that are considered morally wrong or against religious or ethical principles. It implies a sense of guilt or wrongdoing.

For example, a person might say, “I feel sinful for lying to my parents.”
In a discussion about personal values, someone might comment, “Cheating on a partner is a sinful act.”
A religious person might say, “According to my faith, stealing is a sinful behavior.”

17. Regretful

This term describes the feeling of deep regret or sorrow over something one has done or failed to do. It implies a sense of guilt or responsibility for the negative consequences of one’s actions.

For instance, a person might say, “I’m regretful for not studying harder for the exam.”
In a conversation about past mistakes, someone might say, “I still feel regretful for the way I treated my friends.”
A person might admit, “I’m regretful for not spending more time with my family.”

18. Condemned

This term refers to being strongly criticized or disapproved of for one’s actions or behavior. It implies a sense of guilt or shame for one’s actions.

For example, a person might say, “I feel condemned for cheating on the test.”
In a discussion about societal norms, someone might comment, “Certain actions are condemned by society.”
A person might admit, “I’m condemned for my involvement in the scandal.”

19. Complicit

This term describes being involved or participating in a wrongful or illegal act. It implies a sense of guilt or responsibility for one’s role in the wrongdoing.

For instance, a person might say, “I can’t deny that I was complicit in the crime.”
In a conversation about ethical dilemmas, someone might comment, “Being complicit in corruption is morally wrong.”
A person might admit, “I was complicit in covering up the truth.”

20. Offender

This term refers to a person who has committed a crime or engaged in wrongful behavior. It implies a sense of guilt or responsibility for the actions committed.

For example, a person might say, “The offender was sentenced to prison for his crimes.”
In a discussion about criminal justice, someone might comment, “The goal is to rehabilitate offenders.”
A person might admit, “I was an offender in my younger years.”

21. On the hook

When someone is “on the hook,” it means that they are being held responsible for something, usually something negative or illegal. It implies that they are in a difficult or compromising situation.

For example, in a conversation about a crime, someone might say, “He’s on the hook for the robbery.”
In a discussion about a failed project, a team member might admit, “I messed up, so I’m on the hook for the delay.”
A parent might warn their child, “If you break curfew, you’ll be on the hook for the consequences.”

22. Dirty hands

When someone has “dirty hands,” it means that they are involved in wrongdoing or illegal activities. It implies that they have done something morally or ethically wrong.

For instance, in a conversation about corruption, someone might say, “Many politicians have dirty hands.”
In a discussion about a scandal, a journalist might write, “The CEO’s dirty hands were revealed in the leaked documents.”
A friend might confess, “I have dirty hands in this situation, and I need to make things right.”

23. Bearing the blame

When someone is “bearing the blame,” it means that they are taking responsibility for a mistake or wrongdoing. It implies that they are willing to accept the consequences of their actions.

For example, in a conversation about a car accident, someone might say, “I’m bearing the blame because I ran a red light.”
In a discussion about a failed project, a team leader might say, “I’m bearing the blame for not providing enough guidance.”
A student might admit, “I’m bearing the blame for not studying enough for the exam.”

24. Having a conscience

When someone “has a conscience,” it means that they feel guilty or remorseful for their actions. It implies that they have a moral compass and are aware of right and wrong.

For instance, in a conversation about cheating, someone might say, “I can’t cheat because I have a conscience.”
In a discussion about stealing, a character in a book might say, “The thief had no conscience and felt no guilt.”
A person might reflect, “I can’t lie because my conscience won’t let me.”

25. Carrying the guilt

When someone is “carrying the guilt,” it means that they feel burdened or weighed down by guilt. It implies that they are experiencing emotional distress due to their actions.

For example, in a conversation about a lie, someone might say, “I’m carrying the guilt of deceiving my friend.”
In a discussion about a betrayal, a person might admit, “I’m carrying the guilt of breaking my partner’s trust.”
A character in a movie might say, “He’s carrying the guilt of killing his best friend in the war.”

26. Racked with guilt

This phrase describes a feeling of intense guilt or remorse that consumes a person.

For example, “She was racked with guilt after betraying her friend’s trust.”
A person might say, “I couldn’t sleep last night because I was racked with guilt over what I did.”
Another might confess, “I’m racked with guilt for not being there when my family needed me the most.”

27. Culpable

This term refers to being guilty or deserving blame for a particular action or offense.

For instance, “The suspect was found culpable for the crime.”
A person might say, “I feel culpable for causing the accident.”
Another might admit, “I am fully culpable for my actions and the consequences that followed.”

28. Off the hook

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone is relieved from blame or punishment.

For example, “He thought he was going to be arrested, but he got off the hook.”
A person might say, “I was worried about the consequences, but I’m off the hook now.”
Another might exclaim, “I can’t believe I got off the hook for missing that deadline!”

29. In the doghouse

This expression refers to being in a state of disfavor or being in trouble with someone, often due to guilt.

For instance, “He forgot their anniversary and now he’s in the doghouse.”
A person might say, “I’m in the doghouse with my boss because I made a big mistake.”
Another might confess, “I’m definitely in the doghouse with my parents after breaking their favorite vase.”

30. Tainted

This term describes something that has been negatively influenced or affected, often by guilt or wrongdoing.

For example, “His reputation was tainted after the scandal.”
A person might say, “I feel like my actions have tainted my relationship with my best friend.”
Another might admit, “The stolen money tainted his victory and tarnished his career.”

31. Convicted

This term refers to someone who has been officially declared guilty of a crime by a judge or jury. It implies that the person has been proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

For example, “After a long trial, the defendant was convicted of murder.”
In a discussion about criminal justice, one might say, “Being convicted of a felony can have serious consequences.”
A news headline might read, “Man convicted of robbery sentenced to 10 years in prison.”

32. Incriminated

To incriminate someone means to provide evidence or information that suggests their involvement in a crime or wrongdoing. It implies that the person’s actions or statements make them appear guilty.

For instance, “The witness’s testimony incriminated the suspect.”
In a conversation about a scandal, one might say, “Several high-ranking officials have been incriminated in the corruption investigation.”
A news report might state, “New evidence has surfaced that could incriminate the prime suspect in the murder case.”

33. Blamable

This term describes something or someone who is considered responsible or accountable for a negative outcome or wrongdoing. It implies that the person or thing can be blamed for the situation.

For example, “The blamable actions of the company led to the environmental disaster.”
In a discussion about personal relationships, one might say, “Both parties are blamable for the breakdown in communication.”
A person reflecting on their mistakes might admit, “I know I’m blamable for the consequences of my actions.”

34. Compunction

Compunction refers to a sense of guilt or remorse that one feels after doing something wrong or hurtful. It implies that the person recognizes their wrongdoing and experiences regret or unease about it.

For instance, “She acted without compunction, even though she knew it was morally wrong.”
In a conversation about ethical behavior, one might say, “A person with true integrity feels compunction when they harm others.”
A character in a novel might struggle with compunction and confess, “I can no longer live with the weight of my actions.”

35. Inculpated

To inculpate someone means to suggest or accuse them of being involved in a crime or illegal activity. It implies that the person’s actions or evidence point towards their guilt.

For example, “The fingerprints found at the crime scene inculpated the suspect.”
In a discussion about a high-profile case, one might say, “The defense argued that the evidence did not inculpate their client.”
A news headline might read, “Newly discovered evidence inculpates previously overlooked suspect.”

36. Contrite

Feeling or expressing remorse or penitence; affected by guilt.

For example, “He was contrite after realizing the impact of his actions.”
A person might say, “I am truly contrite for what I did and I promise to make amends.”
In a confession, someone might say, “I am deeply contrite for the pain I have caused.”

37. Self-reproachful

Feeling or expressing blame or disapproval towards oneself; experiencing guilt or remorse.

For instance, “She was self-reproachful for not speaking up when she had the chance.”
A person might say, “I can’t help but feel self-reproachful for my part in the argument.”
In a therapy session, someone might express, “I constantly feel self-reproachful for not living up to my own expectations.”

38. Indicted

Being formally charged with a crime or offense, typically by a grand jury or a similar authority.

For example, “The suspect was indicted for multiple counts of fraud.”
A news article might report, “The politician was indicted on charges of corruption.”
In a court case, a lawyer might argue, “The evidence presented is not sufficient to indict my client.”

39. Conscience-smitten

Feeling intense guilt or remorse as a result of one’s actions or choices.

For instance, “He was conscience-smitten after realizing the harm he had caused.”
A person might say, “I am constantly conscience-smitten for not standing up for what is right.”
In a therapy session, someone might express, “I feel conscience-smitten for betraying my friend’s trust.”

40. Condemnable

Deserving of strong disapproval or criticism; morally wrong or reprehensible.

For example, “His actions were condemnable and went against the principles of justice.”
A person might say, “The company’s treatment of its employees is condemnable.”
In a debate, someone might argue, “The government’s policies are condemnable and harmful to the most vulnerable members of society.”

41. Impeached

Impeached refers to the formal process of accusing a public official of committing an offense or misconduct. It is commonly used in the context of high-ranking government officials, such as the President of the United States.

For example, “The President was impeached for abuse of power.”
In a discussion about political scandals, someone might say, “Many people believe that the Governor should be impeached for his actions.”
A news article might state, “The Mayor is facing impeachment charges for corruption.”

42. Reproachful

Reproachful describes a feeling or expression of disapproval, blame, or criticism towards someone who has done something wrong or unacceptable. It conveys a sense of guilt or wrongdoing.

For instance, “She gave him a reproachful look after he lied to her.”
In a conversation about a friend’s behavior, someone might say, “I saw the way he treated his employees, and it was reproachful.”
A parent might scold their child with a reproachful tone, saying, “I can’t believe you broke the vase. That was very reproachful.”

43. Self-reproving

Self-reproving refers to the act of blaming oneself or feeling guilty for one’s own actions or choices. It involves a sense of personal responsibility and accountability.

For example, “She couldn’t sleep at night because of her self-reproving thoughts.”
In a therapy session, a person might express, “I constantly engage in self-reproving behavior, even when it’s not warranted.”
A self-help book might offer advice on overcoming self-reproving tendencies and cultivating self-compassion.

44. Condemnatory

Condemnatory describes a tone or expression of strong disapproval, criticism, or judgment towards someone or something. It implies a sense of guilt or wrongdoing on the part of the person or thing being condemned.

For instance, “His condemnatory remarks towards his colleagues created a hostile work environment.”
In a debate about a controversial topic, someone might argue, “I find the use of condemnatory language unproductive and divisive.”
A movie review might describe a film as “condemnatory of societal norms and expectations.”

45. Censurable

Censurable refers to actions or behavior that is deserving of blame, criticism, or disapproval. It implies guilt or wrongdoing on the part of the person or thing being censured.

For example, “His censurable actions led to the downfall of his career.”
In a discussion about ethics, someone might argue, “Cheating in exams is highly censurable.”
A news article might state, “The company’s censurable practices have led to public outrage.”