To condemn or blame someone; to criticize or reproach someone for a fault or mistake.
彼の失敗を全部彼女のせいだと責めるのは不公平だ。
Blaming her entirely for his mistake is unfair.
部長はミスについて私を責めたが、事情を聞いてくれなかった。
The manager blamed me for the mistake but didn't ask for the circumstances.
子どもを責める前に、まず話をよく聞こう。
Before blaming the child, first listen carefully to what they have to say.
To urge or press someone to do something; to pester or press for action or a decision.
上司は私に結論を早く出すよう責めた。
My boss pressed me to reach a decision quickly.
母は子どもに宿題をしろと責め続けた。
The mother kept nagging the child to do their homework.
周囲の期待に責められて、彼は焦ってしまった。
Pressed by others' expectations, he became anxious.
To torture, torment, or persecute someone physically or mentally.
戦時中、多くの人々が拷問で責められた。
During the war, many people were tortured.
良心の呵責に責められて眠れない夜が続いた。
Nights followed when he couldn't sleep, tormented by his guilty conscience.
To break in (a horse); to train or condition an animal by putting it through handling or work (older/technical usage).
若い馬を無理に責めるのは危険だ。ゆっくり慣らすべきだ。
It's dangerous to force a young horse; you should break it in slowly.