Question

Idiom - Identify the meaning of the idiom: Mea culpa

Answer 1

Step 1 — Origin of the idiom:
The phrase Mea culpa comes from Latin. It literally means “through my fault” and was traditionally used in prayers and confessions to admit wrongdoing.

Step 2 — Meaning in English usage:
In modern English, Mea culpa is used as an expression where someone admits their mistake and accepts responsibility. It is equivalent to saying “I am to blame” or “It’s my fault.”

Step 3 — Example usage:
- After submitting the wrong report, the manager said, “Mea culpa, I should have checked the data carefully.”
- “The error in the article was my mea culpa.”

Step 4 — Conclude:
Thus, the meaning of the idiom Mea culpa is I am to blame.

Answer: The correct answer is I am to blame.