Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

deflect-blame

verb
/dɪˈflɛkt bleɪm/
Definition
To redirect responsibility from oneself to someone else.
Examples
  • During the meeting, she tried to deflect blame for the project’s failure onto her team members.
  • It is common for politicians to deflect blame when faced with controversy.
  • He often deflects blame instead of owning up to his mistakes.
Meaning
Deflecting blame involves shifting the accountability for a mistake or failure away from oneself, often to avoid criticism or negative consequences.
Synonyms
  • Shift responsibility
  • Evade accountability
  • Redirect fault