B1adjectivelawcrime
US/ˈɡɪl.ti/
UK/ˈɡɪl.ti/
having done something wrong or illegal, especially as decided by a court; also feeling bad about it
In context
The jury found both men guilty of taking bribes.
I feel guilty about not calling my grandparents more often.
The manager pleaded guilty and agreed to pay back the money.
Words that go with guilty
verb + adjective
- found guiltyHe was found guilty and sentenced to three years in prison.
- plead guiltyShe decided to plead guilty to avoid a long trial.
- feel guiltyDon't feel guilty about taking a day off when you're ill.
adjective + preposition
- guilty ofThe company was guilty of hiding safety problems.
adjective + noun
- guilty conscienceHis guilty conscience made him return the wallet the next day.
adverb + adjective
- not guiltyAfter a long trial, the court declared her not guilty.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
He was guilty for stealing the phone.Correct: He was guilty of stealing the phone.