culprit
A culprit is someone who has done something wrong or caused trouble.
The word "culprit" is commonly used in everyday conversation when we want to identify the person responsible for making a mess. For example, if your friend breaks a vase at a party, you might say "Who's the culprit behind this mess?" It can also be used more seriously, like in an investigation or police report, where they're trying to figure out who committed a crime.
How common is "culprit"?
Word culprit is considered uncommon in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.
Definitions
noun
The person or thing at fault for a problem or crime.
Example: I have tightened the loose bolt that was the culprit; it should work now.
Real examples of "culprit" in context
