Adjacency Pairs

 

11.Blame ⇨ Denial or Admission

 

Blame Expression	Denial Expression	Admission Expression
You broke the vase!	No, I didn’t! It was already cracked.	Yes, I did. I’m really sorry.
This mistake is your fault.	That’s not true. I wasn’t even involved.	I admit it. I should have been more careful.
You forgot to submit the report.	No, I sent it on time. Check your inbox.	You’re right. I completely forgot.
It was you who left the door unlocked.	No way! I’m sure I locked it.	I think I did. I apologize for that.
You’re the one who spread the rumor.	That’s false! I would never do that.	I won’t deny it. I made a mistake.
You caused the delay in the project.	I disagree. There were other factors involved.	Yes, I accept responsibility for the delay.
You didn’t follow the instructions.	I did follow them. Maybe there was a misunderstanding.	Yes, I may have misunderstood them.
You lost my book, didn’t you?	No, I returned it last week.	I’m afraid I did. I’ll replace it.
This was your responsibility, and you failed.	That’s not fair. I did my best.	I acknowledge that I should have done better.
You always make the same mistakes.	That’s not true. I’m improving.	I guess you’re right. I’ll work on it.
It’s your fault we missed the train.	No, we were both running late.	I admit, I should have hurried more.
You didn’t inform me about the meeting.	I did! Maybe you missed my message.	I’m sorry. I should have reminded you.
You’re responsible for this mess.	I don’t think so. Everyone contributed to it.	Okay, I’ll take responsibility.
It was your decision that led to this problem.	Not entirely. There were other factors involved.	I understand, and I take full responsibility.
You copied my homework!	No, I did it myself.	I admit, I took some ideas from yours.

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