take the blame for others; atone for a crime
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesverb
to take the blame for someone else; to bear criminal responsibility on behalf of another
Often implies accepting punishment or legal consequences intended for another person, sometimes under pressure or for compensation.
He took the blame for his boss and served five years in prison.
The real murderer was found, proving that the person convicted earlier was taking the blame for someone else.
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Don't casually take the blame for others; the consequences can be very serious.
verb
to atone for a crime; to expiate guilt; to offset punishment with merit
formalUsed in formal or legal contexts, often referring to compensating for a crime through punishment, merit, or service. Commonly appears in phrases like '以功顶罪' (atone for crime with merit).
The punishment does not atone for the crime; he must face harsher sanctions.
He proactively atoned for his crime through meritorious service and earned an opportunity for a reduced sentence.
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In ancient times, people could sometimes atone for crimes with money or labor service.