guilt trip meaning in chinese

How to Say Guilt Trip in Chinese

Guilt trips can be a manipulative tactic often used to make someone else feel guilty or responsible for a particular situation. They involve the use of emotional pressure or manipulation to induce feelings of guilt in others. Knowing how to express the concept of a guilt trip in different languages can help you understand cultural nuances and improve communication. In this guide, we will explore how to say guilt trip in Chinese, covering both formal and informal expressions.

Formal Ways to Say Guilt Trip in Chinese

When it comes to expressing the concept of a guilt trip in a formal context, there are a few phrases commonly used in Chinese. Here are some formal ways to say guilt trip in Chinese:

• 1. 虐待良心 (nüèdài liángxīn) This phrase literally translates to “abuse of conscience” and can be used to describe the act of guilt tripping or emotionally manipulating someone.
• 2. 激起愧疚感 (jīqǐ kuìjiù gǎn) This phrase means “to evoke a sense of guilt” and can be used to convey the idea of intentionally making someone feel guilty.
• 3. 心理施压 (xīnlǐ shīyā) This term translates to “psychological pressure” and can be used to describe the act of pressuring or manipulating someone emotionally to make them feel guilty.

Informal Ways to Say Guilt Trip in Chinese

When it comes to informal settings or casual conversations, Chinese speakers often use more colloquial expressions to describe a guilt trip. Here are some informal ways to say guilt trip in Chinese:

• 1. 敲边鼓 (qiāo biān gǔ) Literally meaning “to play the side drum,” this phrase is used metaphorically to describe the act of indirectly conveying guilt or applying pressure to someone to make them feel responsible.
• 2. 强制负罪感 (qiángzhì fù zùiguǎn) This expression means “to force a sense of guilt” and is used to describe actions or words that are aimed at making someone feel guilty.
• 3. 利用愧疚感 (lìyòng kuìjiù gǎn) This phrase translates to “to exploit guilt” and describes the act of using someone’s guilt to manipulate or control them.

Examples of Using Guilt Trip in Chinese

Now, let’s see some examples of how to use the above phrases in context:

他总是敲边鼓让我觉得自己应该负责任。 Tā zǒng shì qiāo biān gǔ ràng wǒ juéde zìjǐ yīnggāi fùzérèn. (He always guilt trips me into feeling responsible.)

我不喜欢她利用愧疚感来操纵我。 Wǒ bù xǐhuan tā lìyòng kuìjiù gǎn lái cāozòng wǒ. (I don’t like her manipulating me using guilt.)

Regional Variations

Chinese is spoken by a vast population with various regional dialects and accents. While the above phrases are commonly used throughout China, there may be some regional variations. It’s important to note that these variations should not hinder general understanding, but they may sound slightly different or contain local idiomatic expressions. If you’re specifically learning a regional dialect, it’s advisable to consult resources or native speakers from that region for accurate translations and expressions related to guilt trips.

Being aware of how to say guilt trip in Chinese can help foster effective communication and understanding between different cultures. Whether in formal or informal settings, you now have various phrases to express the idea of guilt trip in Chinese. Remember to consider the tone and context when using these phrases to ensure your message is appropriately conveyed. Keep practicing and learning, and you’ll become more fluent in expressing the intricacies of emotions and human behavior in Chinese.

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What Is Guilt Tripping?

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

damircudic / Getty Images

• Getting Help

Frequently Asked Questions

A guilt trip means causing another person to feel guilt or a sense of responsibility to change their behavior or take a specific action. Because guilt can be such a powerful motivator of human behavior, people can wield it as a tool to change how others think, feel, and behave. 

Sometimes this might involve leaning on something that someone already feels guilty about. In other cases, people might induce feelings of unjustified guilt or responsibility to manipulate the other person's emotions and behaviors.

If someone has ever made you feel bad about something you’ve done (or didn’t do) and then used those bad feelings to get you to do something for them, then you have experience with guilt tripping.

This article discusses the signs, types, and impact of guilt trips. It also covers some of the steps you can take to cope with this type of behavior.

Signs of a Guilt Trip

Guilt trips can be intentional, but they can also be unintentional. There are chances that you have even guilt-tripped people into doing things before.

Sometimes guilt tripping behavior can be easy to spot, but it can also be much more subtle and difficult to detect.  Some key signs that others may be guilt-tripping you include:

• Making comments suggesting that you have not done as much work as they have done
• Bringing up mistakes that you have made in the past
• Reminding you of favors they have performed for you in the past
• Acting as if they are angry but then denying that there is a problem
• Refusing to speak to you or giving you the silent treatment
• Making it clear through their body language , tone of voice, and facial expressions that they disapprove of what you were doing
• Suggesting that you “owe” them
• Engaging in passive-aggressive behavior
• Making sarcastic comments about your efforts or progress

It is important to note that this type of indirect communication can occur in any interpersonal relationship. Still, it is more likely to take place in relationships that are marked by close emotional connections.

It can show up in romantic relationships, but guilt trips may also be utilized in family relationships, parental relationships, and even work relationships.

Types of Guilt Tripping

There are many different types of guilt trips that people may utilize depending on the ultimate goal or purpose of the behavior. Some of the different purposes of a guilt trip include:

• Manipulation : Sometimes, the primary goal of a guilt trip is to manipulate someone into doing something that they normally would not want to do.  
• Conflict avoidance : In other cases, people may use guilt trips to avoid directly talking about an issue. It allows them to get what they want without having to engage in direct conflict.
• Moral education : Guilt trips can also be a way of getting someone to engage in a behavior that the individual feels is more moral or “right.”
• Elicit sympathy : In some cases, guilt-tripping allows the individual to gain the sympathy of others by casting themselves in the role of someone who has been harmed by the actions the other person is supposed to feel guilty about.

Guilt isn't always a bad thing. While often troubling and unpleasant, it can serve an important role in guiding moral behavior. When people experience guilt, they can fix their mistakes and avoid repeating the same errors in the future.

Researcher Courtney Humeny

A guilt trip does not appear to induce the benefits of guilt, such as making amends, honesty, and mutual understanding.

Impact of Guilt Trips

Invoking feelings of guilt to change someone’s behavior can have a wide variety of effects. Whether guilt is wielded intentionally or not, it prevents healthy communication and connections with others. Some of the most immediate effects of this form of covert psychological manipulation include:

Damage to Relationships

Research suggests that guilt trips can take a toll on close relationships. One study found that people hurt by their partner's criticism were more likely to use those hurt feelings to make their partner feel guilty and offer reassurances.

However, the study also found that the partner who had been guilt-tripped into offering assurances was more likely to feel significantly worse about the relationship.

In other words, inducing feelings of guilt may work to get your partner to do what you want—but it comes at a cost. It can impair trust and cause the other person to feel that they are being manipulated. 

One of the reasons why guilt trips can poison relationships is because they can lead to lasting feelings of resentment.

"A guilt trip imposes aversive states associated with guilt, along with feelings of resentment from feeling manipulated," Humeny suggests.

A single occasion of someone using a guilt trip to alter your behavior might not have a serious impact on your relationship. Repeated use of guilt trips can leave you feeling bitter.

If you feel that your partner is always going to guilt you into something that you don't want to do, it can decrease intimacy, reduce emotional closeness, and ultimately make you start to resent your partner.

Research suggests that appeals to guilt are a common type of persuasion technique . However, while guilt can compel people to take certain actions, it can also sometimes backfire.

Low-level guilt tends to motivate people to act on the persuasive message. High levels of guilt, however, often fail due to what researchers call "reactance." 

"An individual in a state of reactance will behave in such a way as to restore his freedom (or, at least, his sense of freedom), for example, by performing behaviors that are contrary to those required," explain researchers Aurélien Graton and Melody Mailliez in a 2019 article published in the journal Behavioral Sciences .

In other words, guilt trips can backfire and lead people to behave opposite how someone else wants them to act. For example, someone guilt-tripping you into calling them more often might actually result in calling them less.

Poor Well-being

Feelings of excessive guilt are associated with several mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression , and obsessive-compulsive disorder . Being subjected to guilt trips may contribute to the development or worsening of such conditions.

Experiencing guilt can also lead to many immediate and unpleasant emotions and symptoms such as anxiety, sadness, regret, worry, muscle tension, and insomnia.

This type of covert manipulation may also sometimes contribute to the development of a guilt complex , which is a persistent belief that you have done (or will do) something wrong.

Over time, guilt can lead to feelings of shame. Shame can affect your self-image, which can then contribute to social withdrawal and isolation.

How to Cope With Guilt Tripping

There are a number of tactics that can be helpful when dealing with a guilt trip. Some steps you can take include:

• Acknowledge the request. Let them know that you understand that it is important to them. Responding with empathy and showing that you see their needs may help them feel that they are not simply being ignored. Validating their emotions may help lessen the intensity of those feelings.
• Share your feelings . Explain that you also see how they are trying to make you feel guilty so that you'll do what they want. Then tell them how that type of manipulation makes you feel. Suggest that interacting in that way will lead to resentment and that more direct communication forms would be more effective. 
• Set boundaries . Boundaries help set limits on what you will and will not accept. Even if you do end up helping them with their request, make sure you clearly articulate your limits and explain the consequences of crossing those boundaries. Then be sure that you enforce those limits if they are crossed.

Other things that you can use include protecting your self-esteem and distancing yourself if needed. You're more likely to fall for a guilt trip if you already feel poorly about yourself, so find strategies to build up your sense of self-worth. 

If the other person keeps trying to manipulate you with feelings of guilt, reduce your communication with them or even consider ending the relationship.

Protecting your own well-being should be a top priority. A person who tries to manipulate you with toxic feelings of shame and guilt does not have your best interests at heart.

Getting Help for Guilt

If you are experiencing feelings of guilt or related symptoms of anxiety, stress, or depression, talk to your health care provider or a mental health professional. They can recommend treatment options such as psychotherapy or medications that can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of your life.

Your doctor or therapist may suggest a type of therapy called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) , which may help reduce inappropriate guilt feelings. This type of therapy can help you identify and change the negative thoughts and cognitive distortions that can contribute to feelings of guilt.

Your therapist can also help you learn to recognize the signs of a guilt trip—and help you practice strategies to cope with this type of emotional manipulation.

An example of guilt tripping might be your friend calling you and saying, "I know you are too busy with work to hang out. I'll just spend the evening by myself. I just thought that since I helped you get that job you would make sure to make a little more time for me." This type of comment is designed to induce feelings of guilt and bring up the idea that you "owe" them in some way.

Guilt tripping is often designed to manipulate other people by preying on their emotions and feelings of guilt or responsibility. This can be a form of toxic behavior that can have detrimental effects on a person's well-being as well as their relationships.

While both behaviors are destructive and toxic, they differ in key ways. Gaslighting is a type of emotional abuse that involves denying another person's reality and making them question their own experiences. Guilt tripping, on the other hand, is about causing another person to feel guilty in order to get them to change their behavior.

Humeny C. A qualitative investigation of a guilt trip . Conference: Institute of Cognitive Science Spring Proceedings.

Overall NC, Girme YU, Lemay EP Jr, Hammond MD. Attachment anxiety and reactions to relationship threat: the benefits and costs of inducing guilt in romantic partners . J Pers Soc Psychol . 2014;106(2):235-56. doi:10.1037/a0034371

Aurélien G, Melody M. A theory of guilt appeals: a review showing the importance of investigating cognitive processes as mediators between emotion and behavior .  Behav Sci (Basel) . 2019;9(12):117. doi:10.3390/bs9120117

Tilghman-Osborne C, Cole DA, Felton JW.  Definition and measurement of guilt: Implications for clinical research and practice .  Clin Psychol Rev . 2010;30(5):536-546. doi:10.1016/j.cpr.2010.03.007

Miceli M, Castelfranchi C.  Reconsidering the differences between shame and guilt .  Eur J Psychol . 2018;14(3):710-733. doi:10.5964/ejop.v14i3.1564

Herr NR, Jones AC, Cohn DM, Weber DM.  The impact of validation and invalidation on aggression in individuals with emotion regulation difficulties .  Personal Disord . 2015;6(4):310-4. doi:10.1037/per0000129

Cleantis T. Boundaries and self-care . Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation.

Hedman E, Ström P, Stünkel A, Mörtberg E. Shame and guilt in social anxiety disorder: effects of cognitive behavior therapy and association with social anxiety and depressive symptoms . PLoS One . 2013;8(4):e61713. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0061713

Johnson VE, Nadal KL, Sissoko DRG, King R. "It's not in your head": Gaslighting, 'splaining, victim blaming, and other harmful reactions to microaggressions .  Perspect Psychol Sci . 2021;16(5):1024-1036. doi:10.1177/17456916211011963

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Things My Therapist Says

We Need To Talk About Guilt Culture In South Asian Communities

Note: This topic can be a triggering one for many of us 🥺 If you feel yourself having an intense physical or emotional reaction when reading about guilt and shame culture, take a break. Close the tab. It might have hit home in a way you were not prepared for, and that’s okay. Do what you need to do to calm your nervous system and feel at ease again 💛

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Guilt is a powerful emotion. It tends to dig deep and nestle into our consciousness, taking root in our minds AND our bodies. That feeling of being twisted up with guilt is a visceral one- I can almost feel it in the core of my own body as I write about it.

Every emotion serves a purpose, and guilt is no exception. Sometimes guilt can act as a guidepost, signalling to us when our actions stray from our values. For example, when you lash out in frustration at someone who didn’t deserve that reaction, the guilt you feel afterwards may motivate you to apologize.

Guilt can also bend us into behaving in ways that may temporarily ease the uncomfortable feeling, but are not healthy in the long run,

And THAT is where it gets dicey. We can be manipulated by guilt, and it can be weaponized against us

Some people are very skillful at using guilt to get their way or guarantee that others around them will cater to their needs. Ever heard of a guilt trip? Many of us who belong to South Asian cultures know the power of the guilt trip a little too well!

In this post we will get into the concept of how guilt culture unfolds, specifically in the South Asian community. This does not mean, however, that the article won’t resonate with people from other backgrounds! Many of our readers will be able to relate to this, South Asian or not.

Positioning Myself

My perspective, as the writer of this piece, is a South Asian one. My parents immigrated with my siblings and I from Bangalore, India in the 90’s.

This topic can feel personal, and I want to honour that by representing the perspective I am most familiar with. It’s also important to note that South Asian culture, like all cultures, is not homogeneous. Factors such as country of origin, religious beliefs, and social and political differences create variations in values and behaviours. The experiences describes in this post will not resonate with every South Asian person and that is perfectly normal!

The aims of this post are to:

Examine the concept of guilt culture as it applies to the South Asian Community

Describe the experience of adolescent and adult children of South Asian parents

Discuss ideas on how to cope with guilt and shame that is inflicted upon us

Let’s get into it.

What Is Guilt Culture?

Guilt culture forms when a society uses guilt to promote socially acceptable behaviours. The emotion of guilt is used as a tool to emphasize self-control, feel indebted to certain people and circumstances, and staying within the boundaries of cultural norms.

This does not have to occur on a large scale, or societal level. It’s also possible to live in a household that relies on guilt to ensure obedience and conformity.

How Does Guilt Culture Work?

The tactics used to maintain a culture of guilt can be direct or indirect.

Direct tactics are used to remind people about the norms and the consequences of breaking them

Can you think of a time you were directly made to feel guilty about your choices? A common example is being told that ‘others’ will not approve of your behaviour and decisions (i.e. log kya kahenge ?) .

Many oldest siblings in South Asian households are directly reminded of how their actions will affect the fortunes and opportunities of their younger siblings. An example I’ve witnessed multiple times is when elder daughters are encouraged to get engaged or married early because they should not hold up the line for their other siblings.

Guilt culture can also be maintained through indirect communication

If someone has ever taken you on a guilt trip, you have an idea of what this looks like in practice. Many of us have experienced a guilt trip from our parents. Let’s use an example.

It’s Saturday evening and you are thinking of joining your friends for a movie (we are talking pre-COVID times here 😭.). Your mom has nothing going on that evening, and you know she feels lonely when you are gone and she is at home alone. When you tell her about your movie plans, she looks visibly disheartened. She tells you to go see the movie while also mentioning that no one thinks about what it’s like for her to be at home alone. In the end, you stay home because you don’t want her to feel sad and lonely while you are out having fun.

Overtime, indirect guilt can mould your behaviour to cater to the person employing this tactic (which doesn’t necessarily mean it’s being done maliciously- it can be unconsciously done and still be harmful). For example, you may end up staying in more often to appease your mother. While this makes her feel better, it affects your social life and ability to truly enjoy yourself when you do go out.

Guilt Culture In A South Asian Context

South Asian culture emphasizes family loyalty, obligation, self-sacrifice, and obedience towards elders. These characteristics can make it difficult to do things that are deemed ‘outside the box’. Individualistic, Euro-Canadian values may also directly challenge the more group-oriented South Asian values.

Many Canadian-born or raised South Asian youth struggle to reconcile these aspects of both cultures.

When we are drawn to aspects of the more individualistic Euro-Canadian culture, our parents and the wider South Asian community may feel threatened by this. Motivated by the fear that their culture, traditions, language and values may be lost, our parents and community members can use guilt tactics to ensure we are staying within the assigned boundaries.

Living In A Guilt Culture As Adult Children Of South Asian Parents

As an adult child of South Indian immigrant parents, I can relate countless experiences of guilt culture in practice! Furthermore, in my role as a therapist, I’ve found that many of my clients with similar cultural backgrounds are struggling with a lifetime of carrying guilt.

Here is the interesting thing about guilt. After a lifetime of being manipulated using guilt tactics, you end up internalizing the guilt. No one has to directly (or indirectly) guilt you anymore: you do it to yourself.

In my therapy practice, the group of people I’ve seen this occur the most in are children of immigrant parents.

The Immigrant Child Complex

Many of us belong to a generation whose parents immigrated to Western countries. They gave up nearly everything they knew and left everyone that was familiar and beloved to them, to pursue a better life for us, their children.

That decision had a colossal impact on their relationship with us, and our psyche.

Children of immigrants feel constantly indebted to their parents. The sacrifice that provided endless opportunities for us can never be re-paid. This is not lost on us. However, many of us continue to spend our lives doing our very best to ensure that our parents’ sacrifice is worth it.

The question of worthiness is an important one. Will we know when we have finally reached this point? When we have lived up to the pinnacle of worthiness? Of course not.

Part of the reason for this is the measure of proving our worth is constantly shifting. When we are in school, the measure is getting exceptional grades . In young adulthood, the measure is choosing often traditional career paths that fulfill our parents’ ideals of success. As we move through our 20’s and 30’s, we the measure shifts once again to marrying into the ‘right family’, having children at the ‘right age’ and so on, and so on.

Throughout this journey, guilt tactics are used to correct us when we stray from the socially acceptable ways of doing things (I.e. pursuing a creative degree, dating someone outside your culture, or choosing not to have children).

How does this impact our lives in the long-term? Well, here is a (non-exhaustive) list of decisions my South Asian friends, acquaintances, and clients have made out of a sense of guilt:

Living with in-laws after getting married when they would prefer not to

Not speaking up about abusive family members

Giving up passion projects to pursue more traditional sources of income

Living with their parents instead of moving out on their own

Limiting their dreams to cater to their parent’s ideas of what is safe and reasonable

Tips On Coping With Guilt Culture

The commitment to ‘face-saving’ in many South Asian households means that coping with guilt is often a private (and lonely) affair. Research has shown that South Asian families are reluctant to solve their problems in therapy. This can be explained by stigma against therapy and an emphasis on keeping family matters private.

Moreover, confronting guilt culture can be dangerous and disheartening. Having your experience denied, or minimized is extremely challenging.

So how do we cope with guilt culture? We offer a few tips and ideas to gently orient you away from a guilt-focused way of living and towards a life that honours your needs as well as that of others.

1. Set Clear Boundaries and Limit Information Sharing

If you are someone who is easily influenced by guilt, having control over what your family and community knows about your life is an effective way to keep yourself from constantly caving in. This can feel manipulative. In fact, more often than not, we experience guilt around setting this boundary!

However, keep in mind that the more information people have about your life, the harder it will be for you to act freely.

2. Recognize Gaslighting Behaviours For What They Are

For those of us who prefer to tell it like it is and confront guilt culture directly, make sure you are recognizing common forms of gaslighting.

Most people employ guilt tactics unconsciously and unintentionally. Regardless, it’s important to maintain he impact those actions had on your life. You may also hear phrases such as “you are overreacting” or “that’s not what happened, you imagined it”.

Know that your lived experiences are valid and no one can decide how you experienced things. It is also not your fault (or responsibility) when people refuse to take accountability for their actions.

3. Pay Attention To How Guilt Influences Your Life Choices

Sit down with a piece of paper and do an inventory of your major life decisions. Reflect on the extent to which your decisions were influenced by guilt. For example, did you attend a university closer to home because your parents made you feel bad about moving out?

This will help you pay closer attention to the role guilt plays in your life. Many of us are so used to feeling guilty that we interpret it as a duty and obligation. Understanding what is truly motivating your actions (or lack of) can be liberating.

4. Understand That Living For Your Parents Will Not Fulfill You

In fact, you may come to resent them, and resentment never fosters a mutually fulfilling relationship. Many of us live for our parents because we were taught from a young age that their love is conditional upon the way we act, dress, study, earn money, and marry.

The wounds of conditional love are deep, even when we know that our parents love us and want what is best for us. The pain we carry often prevents us from living our best lives. Instead of filling our cup, we spend our lives chasing the feeling of unconditional love and acceptance by doing everything we can to meet other’s expectations.

We need to live for ourselves and prioritize self-love. It is the only way we can release old wounds and build healthier adult relationships with our parents and wider community.

Before You Go….

This is a loaded topic, and I know that not everyone will resonate with it! It’s important to note that most of us do not consciously and maliciously employ guilt tactics to control other people’s behaviours. People do this in response to their own fears and anxieties. The impact, however, is undeniable, however unintentional the action is.

If you feeling triggered and raw after reading this post, please take care of yourself. Drink something warm, sway to some music, put on calming and relaxing rain sounds. Talk to someone who will listen to and validate your experiences. And remember, that as lonely as coping with internalized guilt can feel, there are countless others working through the same or very similar feelings.

Until next time,

Zainib Abdullah

Zainib Abdullah (MSW, RSW) is the founder and executive director at Wellnest, a Toronto-based mental health clinic. The Wellnest team – a collective of diverse psychotherapists – focuses on supporting the needs of the BIPOC community. As a trauma therapist, her approach is client-centred, anti-racist/oppressive and trauma-informed, incorporating various therapeutic modalities. She uses somatic based therapy to help clients heal and manage trauma experiences. She supports clients in accessing greater connectedness to their inner wisdom and peace.

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guilt trip noun

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What does the noun guilt trip mean?

There is one meaning in OED's entry for the noun guilt trip . See ‘Meaning & use’ for definition, usage, and quotation evidence.

How common is the noun guilt trip ?

How is the noun guilt trip pronounced, british english, u.s. english, where does the noun guilt trip come from.

Earliest known use

The earliest known use of the noun guilt trip is in the 1970s.

OED's earliest evidence for guilt trip is from 1972, in the writing of J. Rossner.

guilt trip is formed within English, by compounding.

Etymons: guilt n. , trip n. 1

Nearby entries

• guilter, n. a1300–82
• guiltful, adj. 1655–1791
• guiltfully, adv. c1480
• guiltily, adv. 1597–
• guiltiness, n. c1480–
• guilting, adj. Old English–1382
• guiltist, n. 1693
• guiltless, adj. c1175–
• guiltlessly, adv. 1548–
• guiltlessness, n. 1571–
• guilt trip, n. 1972–
• guilt-trip, v. 1977–
• guiltwite, n. Old English–1706
• guilty, adj. Old English–
• guilty knowledge, n. 1800–
• guiltyship, n. 1557
• guily, adj. c1430–1530
• guimauve, n. 1812–
• guimbard, n. 1830–
• guimpe, n. 1688–
• guindall, n. 1628

Meaning & use

I want to make it clear that nobody's sending me on any guilt trip over my money.

You start laying guilt trips on me and I don't need it, okay?

Mum, don't lay a guilt trip on us.

Ever the master of the guilt-trip , he finally said, ‘And this is how you kids repay me?’

Everyone in my family has a tendency toward manipulative behavior, but it's going beyond that. I can't begin to describe the guilt trip each one separately is laying on me!

• guilt 1567– An unpleasant feeling of having committed wrong or failed in an obligation; a guilty feeling.
• guilt trip 1972– An episode of severe, often excessive or unjustified self-reproach, esp. one deliberately provoked by another person; a state of mind in which a…
• self-condemnation 1591– The action of blaming oneself for something.
• self-accusing 1602– The action or an act of accusing oneself.
• self-reproving 1608– The action or an act of reproving oneself; (a) self-reproof.
• self-accusation 1616– The action of accusing oneself; an accusation made against oneself.
• self-reproof a1631– Reproof or censure of oneself; (severe) self-reproach. Also (and in earliest use): an instance of this; a reproving thought or utterance about…
• self-reflection 1656–1844 A critical or reproachful thought about oneself. Cf. reflection , n. II.9. Obsolete .
• self-reproach 1683– The action or fact of reproaching or blaming oneself; reproach directed towards oneself. Also (and in earliest use): an instance of this; a…
• self-reproachment 1802– The action or fact of reproaching or blaming oneself; self-reproach.
• self-reproval 1823– Reproval or censure of oneself; an instance of this; = self-reproof , n.
• self-reproachingness 1850–

Pronunciation

• ð th ee
• ɬ rhingy ll

Some consonants can take the function of the vowel in unstressed syllables. Where necessary, a syllabic marker diacritic is used, hence <petal> /ˈpɛtl/ but <petally> /ˈpɛtl̩i/.

• a trap, bath
• ɑː start, palm, bath
• ɔː thought, force
• ᵻ (/ɪ/-/ə/)
• ᵿ (/ʊ/-/ə/)

Other symbols

• The symbol ˈ at the beginning of a syllable indicates that that syllable is pronounced with primary stress.
• The symbol ˌ at the beginning of a syllable indicates that that syllable is pronounced with secondary stress.
• Round brackets ( ) in a transcription indicate that the symbol within the brackets is optional.

View the pronunciation model here .

* /d/ also represents a 'tapped' /t/ as in <bitter>

Some consonants can take the function of the vowel in unstressed syllables. Where necessary, a syllabic marker diacritic is used, hence <petal> /ˈpɛd(ə)l/ but <petally> /ˈpɛdl̩i/.

• i fleece, happ y
• æ trap, bath
• ɑ lot, palm, cloth, thought
• ɔ cloth, thought
• ɔr north, force
• ə strut, comm a
• ər nurse, lett er
• ɛ(ə)r square
• æ̃ sal on

Simple Text Respell

Simple text respell breaks words into syllables, separated by a hyphen. The syllable which carries the primary stress is written in capital letters. This key covers both British and U.S. English Simple Text Respell.

b, d, f, h, k, l, m, n, p, r, s, t, v, w and z have their standard English values

• arr carry (British only)
• a(ng) gratin
• o lot (British only)
• orr sorry (British only)
• o(ng) salon

guilt trip typically occurs about 0.07 times per million words in modern written English.

guilt trip is in frequency band 3, which contains words occurring between 0.01 and 0.1 times per million words in modern written English. More about OED's frequency bands

Frequency of guilt trip, n. , 1970–2010

* Occurrences per million words in written English

Historical frequency series are derived from Google Books Ngrams (version 2), a data set based on the Google Books corpus of several million books printed in English between 1500 and 2010.

The overall frequency for a given word is calculated by summing frequencies for the main form of the word, any plural or inflected forms, and any major spelling variations.

For sets of homographs (distinct entries that share the same word-form, e.g. mole , n.¹, mole , n.², mole , n.³, etc.), we have estimated the frequency of each homograph entry as a fraction of the total Ngrams frequency for the word-form. This may result in inaccuracies.

Smoothing has been applied to series for lower-frequency words, using a moving-average algorithm. This reduces short-term fluctuations, which may be produced by variability in the content of the Google Books corpus.

Compounds & derived words

• guilt-trip , v. 1977– transitive. To instil or attempt to instil feelings of guilt or remorse in (a person), often in order to induce him or her into a particular course…

Entry history for guilt trip, n.

guilt trip, n. was first published in September 2001.

guilt trip, n. was last modified in July 2023.

oed.com is a living text, updated every three months. Modifications may include:

• further revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
• new senses, phrases, and quotations.

Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into guilt trip, n. in July 2023.

Please submit your feedback for guilt trip, n.

Please include your email address if you are happy to be contacted about your feedback. OUP will not use this email address for any other purpose.

Citation details

Factsheet for guilt trip, n., browse entry.

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What is the translation of "guilt" in Chinese?

"guilt" in chinese, guilt {noun}.

• volume_up 内疚

self-accusing guilt {noun}

• volume_up 亏心事

confess one's guilt

• volume_up 供认有罪

admit one's guilt {vb}

• volume_up 服罪

Translations

• open_in_new Link to source
• warning Request revision

admit one's guilt {verb}

Context sentences, english chinese contextual examples of "guilt" in chinese.

These sentences come from external sources and may not be accurate. bab.la is not responsible for their content.

Monolingual examples

English how to use "guilt" in a sentence, synonyms (english) for "guilt":.

• guilt feelings
• guilty conscience

pronunciation

• guide rational consumption
• guiding idler
• guiding principle
• guilty feeling
• guilty intention

Have a look at the English-Portuguese dictionary by bab.la.

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guilt trip 在英語-中文（繁體）詞典中的翻譯

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( guilt trip 在 劍橋英語-中文（繁體）詞典 的翻譯 © Cambridge University Press)

guilt trip 的 例句

Guilt trip 的翻譯.

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be chasing your tail

to be busy doing a lot of things but achieving very little

Binding, nailing, and gluing: talking about fastening things together

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Definition of guilt-trip

 (Entry 1 of 2)

transitive verb

Definition of guilt trip  (Entry 2 of 2)

Examples of guilt-trip in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'guilt-trip.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1974, in the meaning defined above

1970, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near guilt-trip

Cite this entry.

“Guilt-trip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/guilt-trip. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

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What is a guilt trip: 5 types, examples, signs, how to recognize, avoid, and stop guilt tripping.

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Guilt is a natural human emotion that is often used by others as a tool for control and manipulation. People take advantage of this by inducing feelings of guilt in others, making them feel responsible for things they don’t do, or may not have control over. 

This practice is commonly referred to as the “ guilt trip ,” It can be harmful to both the person inducing the guilt and the person feeling it. What is a guilt trip ? This article will help you explore the various types of guilt trips , how they are used and provide coping techniques to help you avoid falling into this trap. 

What Does Guilt Trip Mean? By understanding the dynamics of the guilt trip and learning to recognize it, you can protect yourself from emotional manipulation and maintain healthier relationships.

What is a Guilt Trip?

A guilt trip is a method employed to induce feelings of guilt or responsibility in another person with the only intent of altering their behavior or inspiring them to take a specific action. The potent influence that guilt has on human conduct makes it a useful weapon for influencing the thoughts, emotions, and actions of others. Guilt trips are often utilized to manipulate people into doing what someone else wants or to force someone to reconsider their choices and decisions.

Another important thing is understanding the difference between the natural guilt feeling and the one induced by others in you. The former means that you are guilty of something you have done wrong, have never done before, or failed to do. While in the latter one, an individual attempts to create unjustified feelings of guilt or responsibility in you with the intention of manipulating your emotions and actions. 

Types of Guilt Trips

Guilt tripping refers to a manipulative behavior in which someone makes another person feel guilty or ashamed in order to control their actions or decisions. Here I have listed some of the most common types of guilt tripping:

• Emotional Guilt Tripping: This involves using emotional manipulation to make someone feel guilty for not doing something or for doing something that the manipulator disapproves of.
• Reverse Guilt Tripping: This involves making the other person feel guilty for not taking care of the manipulator or for not doing things their way.
• Historical Guilt Tripping: This involves reminding the other person of past mistakes or shortcomings in order to make them feel guilty in the present.
• Responsibility Guilt Tripping: This involves making someone feel guilty for not fulfilling a responsibility or for not doing something that is expected of them.
• Martyr Guilt Tripping: This involves making someone feel guilty for not sacrificing enough or for not putting the needs of others above their own.

It’s important to note that guilt tripping can be harmful and lead to feelings of low self-esteem and decreased self-worth. If you think you’re guilt tripped, it’s essential to set boundaries and learn to assert yourself healthily and assertively.

Purposes of a Guilt Trip

Why would someone guilt trip you, or why do I guilt trip others? Guilt tripping is not unpurposeful; a person who guilt trips others always has some specific purpose behind this. Read the mentioned-below purposes behind guilt tripping. 

• Manipulating or controlling other’s behavior 
• To gain sympathy or attention
• To enforce their own moral or ethical beliefs
• To make others feel obligated to them
• To evade assuming accountability for their own conduct.
• To express anger or frustration
• To punish or inflict emotional harm
• To resolve feelings of insecurity or jealousy
• To exact revenge or retribution
• To elicit an apology or expression of regret.

It’s important to note that guilt tripping is often an unhealthy form of communication and can damage relationships. It’s better to find alternative ways of resolving conflicts or addressing problems in a healthy, respectful manner.

Signs of Guilt Tripping

It can be challenging to recognize the signs when someone is guilt tripping you. However, some common are:

• They make you feel guilty or bad for not doing something.
• They make you feel like you owe them something for doing something for you.
• They use guilt or manipulation to get what they want.
• They make you feel like you should do something for them because they did something for you.
• They create a sense in you that you are inadequate or that they surpass you in some way.
• They make you feel like you’re responsible for their feelings.

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, someone is likely guilt tripping you.

Examples of Guilt Tripping

Here are some examples of guilt tripping :

• “You know how much this means to me, but you still won’t help me out.”
• “I just don’t understand why you can’t make time for me, even though I make time for you.”
• “I gave up so much for you, and this is the thanks I get?”
• “If your love for me is genuine, you will undertake this for me.”

These statements are examples of guilt tripping tactics, which involve attempting to manipulate and exert control over someone through emotional appeals.

It’s important to note that while guilt tripping can be an effective way of getting someone to do what you want, it is not a healthy or respectful way to treat others. It’s better to communicate openly and honestly and try to find a solution that works for everyone.

How to Stop Guilt Tripping

If feelings of guilt are constantly burdening you, taking control of the situation and stopping the guilt trip is essential. The first step to achieving this is by setting boundaries with the person who is causing these feelings. Let them know what you will and will not tolerate regarding their behavior towards you. By clearly communicating your expectations, you are letting them know you are not willing to be mistreated.

It’s also crucial to speak up and let the person know how their words or actions are affecting you. Be assertive and confident in your communication, but remain respectful and calm. Don’t be afraid to disagree with their point of view and walk away from the situation if necessary. Remember that you have the right to say “no” without feeling guilty, and it’s important to protect yourself from being manipulated into doing something you don’t want to do. If the situation becomes too overwhelming, seek help from a trusted friend or professional. The most important thing is prioritizing your well-being and taking control of the situation.

Is Guilt Tripping Gaslighting?

Gaslighting is a type of psychological manipulation in which someone makes you feel like your thoughts and feelings are wrong or invalid. It’s a form of emotional abuse in which the wrongdoer tries to make the victim question their sanity or reality.

It’s important to distinguish between guilt tripping and gaslighting , as they are two different yet related dynamics. Guilt tripping is a tactic that seeks to control through emotional manipulation but does not usually involve questioning the validity of one’s perceptions and emotions. On the other hand, gaslighting is a deliberate attempt to distort reality and make someone doubt their own thoughts and feelings.

Additionally, guilt tripping can also serve as a means of gaslighting when the person tries to make you feel guilty for things you did not do or for not performing actions you were not requested to undertake.

How to Recognize and Avoid Guilt Tripping in Relationships

It’s essential to recognize and avoid guilt tripping in relationships. Here are some useful tips for recognizing and avoiding guilt tripping:

• First, learn about the signs of guilt tripping and be aware of them.
• Express yourself and inform the individual about the impact of their words on your emotions.
• Clearly establish your limits, and fill you up with the courage to say “no.”
• Avoid falling victim to manipulation or domination.
• Don’t be scared to walk away from the situation.
• If the problem goes uncontrol and becomes unbearable, don’t hesitate to seek assistance.

How To Deal With Guilt Tripping

If you’re dealing with someone who is guilt tripping you, it’s essential to know how to handle the situation. Here are some useful tips for dealing with it:

• Stay calm, and don’t take it personally.
• Recognize the signs of guilt tripping , and don’t allow yourself to be manipulated.
• Speak up and let the person know how their words make you feel.
• Respectfully disagree with them.
• Set boundaries, and don’t be afraid to leave the situation.
• Reach out for assistance if the circumstances become excessively burdensome.

Bottom Line

Being subjected to guilt trips can lead to feelings of distress and undermine your mental and emotional health. In order to safeguard yourself from these situations, it’s crucial to identify and fend off guilt trips. By being aware of the warning signs and taking the necessary steps to handle them, you can prevent yourself from being controlled and manipulated. Remember that declining is always okay, and you are under no obligation to engage in anything you do not wish to. By taking charge of these situations, you can lead a more fulfilling life free from undue stress and pressure.

If you’re in a relationship with a person who is guilt tripping you, it’s crucial to find a way to communicate with them. Setting boundaries and seeking help if the situation becomes too overwhelming can also help.

No one deserves to be manipulated or controlled, so don’t fall into the trap of a guilt trip. Recognize the signs of guilt tripping and learn ways to handle the situation better if it arises. It is within your rights to decline, and you are not obligated to engage in any activity you do not wish to participate in.

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Definition of 'guilt trip'

Guilt trip in american english, guilt-trip in american english, examples of 'guilt trip' in a sentence guilt trip, browse alphabetically guilt trip.

• guilt complex
• guilt-ridden
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The Psychology Behind Guilt Trips – Meaning and Implications

Imagine a psychological maneuver, so cunningly deployed, that it entangles you in a web of remorse and regret. This, in essence, encapsulates the concept and meaning of ‘guilt trips.’

A potent tool of emotional manipulation, guilt trips leverage feelings of culpability and self-reproach to steer behavior to suit the manipulator’s desires.

Table of Contents

Guilt-Trips – Understanding the Meaning of the Term

In the realm of psychological manipulation , few tactics are as potent and pervasive as guilt trips.

This subtle form of emotional blackmail is employed with a singular objective – to induce feelings of guilt or remorse in a person, compelling them to act in a manner that serves the manipulator’s interests.

Guilt trips operate on the principle of exploiting an individual’s sense of responsibility or moral obligation .

By making them feel as if they have wronged, or failed to fulfill an expectation, the manipulator can steer their actions and decisions.

Regrettably, this manipulative tactic is not an anomaly, but rather a common occurrence that permeates even our closest relationships.

Friends, family members, and romantic partners may resort to guilt tripping , capitalizing on the emotional bonds to exert influence.

Guilt trips are in fact a form of intimidation tactic, leveraging the perception that the victim doesn’t care enough, thereby inducing guilt.

Thus guilt trips are not just about manipulation, but also about power dynamics and control.

The Main Characteristics of Guilt Trips

Guilt-tripping is a manipulative tactic that leverages feelings of guilt or shame to control someone’s behavior.

Recognizing guilt trips when they occur is a crucial step towards safeguarding oneself from their harmful effects.

Here are the main characteristics of guilt trips:

Leveraging pressure is a key component of guilt trips. Typically, the manipulator attempts to force someone into compliance against their own will or better judgment.

The pressure exerted is not physical but psychological, and it’s often cloaked in layers of emotional manipulation, scare tactics, and claims of moral high ground.

The manipulator carefully exploits the target’s vulnerabilities, using them as points of leverage to sway the individual towards their desired course of action.

This could involve playing on their insecurities, their fear of conflict, or their innate desire to please others.

In essence, the manipulator turns the target’s emotions against them, transforming their feelings into chains that bind them to the manipulator’s will.

Avoidance is another key characteristic of guilt trips. Those who employ this tactic often do so to evade direct confrontation relating to their unreasonable demands.

This strategy involves casting themselves in the role of the wronged party, while the actual victim is painted as the perpetrator.

This clever deflection allows the manipulator to maintain an illusion of innocence and moral superiority, even as they continue to control and influence the other person’s behavior.

In this way, avoidance becomes a tool of deceit, enabling the manipulator to continue their controlling behavior while evading the consequences typically associated with such actions.

Unrealistic Expectations

Manipulators often make demands relating to behavior, performance, or emotional responses that exceed what can reasonably be asked of someone.

The target ends up caught in an emotional web that creates a no-win situation for the target, as meeting these expectations often means betraying their own self, while failing to meet them results in guilt and shame.

This strategy serves to enhance the manipulator’s control, keeping the target in a perpetual state of striving, guilt, and self-doubt.

It also reinforces the manipulator’s position of power, as they alone dictate the rules and judge the outcomes.

Self-Victimization

When trying to guilt someone into doing something, a manipulator will frequently present themselves as victims.

By portraying themselves as the aggrieved party, they seek to elicit pity, sympathy, and understanding from their target.

This calculated display of vulnerability serves as an effective smokescreen, diverting attention away from their manipulative tactics and casting them in a seemingly innocent and helpless light.

After all, it’s challenging to identify someone as a manipulator when they appear to be the one who’s suffering.

In this way, self-victimization becomes a powerful tool in the guilt tripper’s arsenal, enabling them to manipulate effectively while maintaining an image of vulnerability and innocence.

Entitlement

Manipulators who use guilt-tripping to dictate the actions and decisions of others, are usually extremely entitled.

Their entitlement manifests as a blatant disregard for the feelings, comfort, or autonomy of their victims.

The manipulator will dismiss or minimize the target’s discomfort or unwillingness to comply, viewing these reactions as inconsequential compared to their own desires.

Shame as a Weapon in Guilt Trips

Shame is another potent tool commonly used in guilt trips.

The manipulator strategically employs shaming tactics with the aim of inducing feelings of inadequacy or worthlessness in their victim.

They may criticize, belittle, or mock the target for failing to meet their demands or for disappointing them.

The purpose of such tactics is to erode the target’s self-esteem and confidence, making them more susceptible to manipulation.

As the victim grapples with feelings of shame, they become increasingly entangled in the manipulator’s web, often striving harder to meet the manipulator’s demands in an attempt to escape these negative emotions.

This dynamic can lead to a vicious cycle of guilt and shame, where the victim constantly feels at fault and strives to make amends, further solidifying the manipulator’s control.

It underscores the damaging psychological impact of guilt trips, revealing them as not merely manipulative tactics, but forms of emotional abuse.

The Impact of Being Guilt-Tripped

The impact and meaning of guilt trips as a form of manipulation can be profound, affecting both psychological and physical health.

Psychological Effects: Self-Doubt and Depression

Being the constant target of guilt-tripping can have severe psychological ramifications.

When faced with a continuous barrage of manipulation and blame, victims may start questioning their actions, decisions, and even their worth.

This constant state of self-doubt can be emotionally draining, leading to feelings of hopelessness or depression.

Over time, this emotional turmoil can significantly weaken the victim’s self-esteem.

They may start believing they are at fault or inadequate, internalizing the negative messages conveyed by the manipulator.

This diminished self-esteem can affect all aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional performance, creating a vicious cycle of self-doubt and depression.

Physical Impacts: The Consequences of Chronic Stress

Beyond the psychological damage, guilt trips can also lead to physical harm.

The chronic stress resulting from enduring regular emotional manipulation can have serious consequences on physical health.

Chronic stress puts the body in a state of continuous fight-or-flight response, which leads to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.

Over time, this can put a strain on the heart, increasing the risk of heart disease.

Moreover, chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making one more susceptible to infections and diseases.

It can also lead to headaches and other physical discomforts.

In some cases, the stress can manifest as somatic symptoms , where emotional distress is expressed through physical ailments like stomachaches or back pain.

Furthermore, chronic stress has been linked to mental health disorders like depression and anxiety.

The constant state of worry and tension can disrupt sleep patterns, affect appetite, and lead to feelings of exhaustion, further exacerbating these conditions.

Shielding Ourselves from Guilt Trip Tactics

In the face of guilt tripping tactics, which are a form of emotional abuse, it is crucial to take proactive steps to protect ourselves.

This involves cultivating awareness, establishing boundaries , practicing self-care, and building robust support systems.

Awareness: Recognizing Manipulative Behaviour

The first step to protecting ourselves from guilt trip tactics is to develop an understanding that such behaviour exists in our lives.

We need to familiarize ourselves with the signs of manipulation, such as guilt-inducing comments, shaming tactics, or attempts at controlling our actions through emotional coercion .

By becoming more aware of these patterns, we can recognize when they occur and be better prepared to address them.

It’s important not only to identify these behaviours in others but also to introspectively examine our own reactions and feelings when faced with potential manipulation.

Establishing Boundaries: Assertiveness and Communication

Once we’ve identified manipulative patterns, we need to establish healthy mechanisms for dealing with them.

This often involves being assertive, speaking up for ourselves, and setting boundaries firmly yet compassionately.

Clearly communicating our needs and limits to the manipulator is crucial.

If the guilt tripping persists, it might be necessary to create distance or even sever ties, prioritizing our mental and emotional well-being above maintaining a toxic relationship .

Self-Care: Nurturing Joy and Wellness

Self-care plays a pivotal role in protecting ourselves from the detrimental effects of guilt tripping.

This involves consciously taking time out to engage in activities that bring us joy and comfort, thereby reducing stress and enhancing our overall mental health.

Getting plenty of rest, maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in physical exercise, and pursuing hobbies or interests are all vital components of self-care.

Equally crucial is distancing ourselves from potentially harmful environments where guilt tripping is prevalent.

Support Systems: Harnessing the Power of Community

Finally, surrounding ourselves with supportive family members or close friends who understand our situation can be invaluable.

Their empathy and encouragement can provide a much-needed emotional buffer during challenging times.

A strong support system not only offers comfort and reassurance but can also provide perspective, helping us to see manipulative behaviours for what they are.

This can be particularly beneficial during prolonged episodes of manipulation, as it helps maintain our mental health and resilience

Final Thoughts on the Meaning and Implications of Guilt Trips

Guilt-tripping is a devious form of manipulation that seeks to exploit another person’s feelings of guilt or shame to achieve the manipulator’s objectives.

This tactic often involves the manipulator portraying themselves as a victim to elicit sympathy, all while fostering an unhealthy sense of entitlement as they attempt to control others through shaming tactics.

Individuals who resort to such tactics typically aim to manipulate the emotions of others, seeking to bend their will to meet their own needs or desires.

It’s a power play that hinges on the imbalance of emotional control between the manipulator and the manipulated.

When confronted with a situation where someone is attempting to guilt you into complying with their wishes, it’s crucial to recognize the manipulative strategies at play.

Assert your position, communicate your feelings forthrightly yet empathetically, and don’t be afraid to say no. Remember, it’s your right to make decisions based on your comfort and well-being, not out of coerced guilt or shame.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Meaning of Guilt Trips

A guilt trip is a manipulative tactic used by someone to make another person feel guilty or responsible for something, often in order to get them to do something they may not want to do or to gain control over a situation.

Guilt trips typically involve using emotional pressure, subtle manipulation, or passive-aggressive behavior to make someone feel guilty. They may involve highlighting past favors, emphasizing sacrifices made, or suggesting that the person’s actions have caused harm or disappointment.

Guilt trips can have a significant emotional impact on individuals. They may lead to feelings of guilt, self-doubt, anxiety, and a sense of obligation to meet the manipulator’s demands. Over time, repeated guilt trips can erode self-esteem and create a cycle of emotional manipulation.

Responding to a guilt trip involves setting boundaries, recognizing manipulation tactics, and asserting your own needs and desires. Communicate assertively, express your feelings without defensiveness, and consider seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist to help navigate the situation.

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Carla Corelli, a writer, advocate, and survivor of narcissistic abuse, draws from her own upbringing with a narcissistic father to shed light on psychological trauma. Fueled by her personal journey, she pursued a degree in psychology and has dedicated herself to shedding light on the complexities of narcissistic abuse. With over fifteen years of experience in writing and advocating for survivors, Carla is deeply committed to providing support, education, and empowerment to those who have endured similar trauma. Through her articles, Carla aims to offer a compassionate space for healing and growth, while advocating for greater awareness and understanding of narcissistic abuse. More info about Carla Our editorial policy

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