Definition

A situation where one person accuses another in response to an accusation, often involving mutual blame or countercharges.

Example

During the argument, both sides engaged in recrimination, blaming each other for the problems in their relationship.

Conversation

I heard they had a big fight last night.

Yeah, it ended up in a lot of recrimination between them.

That's too bad; I hate when friends argue like that.

Same here. It just makes everything so uncomfortable.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Recrimination is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "criminari" (meaning to accuse). The word describes the act of accusing someone in return, often in response to an accusation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'accusing again' — 're-' means again, and 'criminari' means to accuse. This helps you remember that recrimination involves responding to an accusation with another accusation.

Visually Confused Words