noun
negligent error; blunder; accident caused by negligence
Refers to a mistake or accident caused by carelessness or failure to take proper care; often more serious or formal than a simple mistake.
運転手の過失で事故が起きた。
The accident happened because of the driver's negligence.
重大な過失
The employee who committed a serious blunder was disciplined.
noun
Used to assign fault or responsibility, especially in legal, insurance, or formal contexts. The gloss 'defect' is best understood as a fault or failing, not usually a physical defect, for which 欠陥 is more natural.
裁判所は会社側に過失があると判断した。
The court judged that the company was at fault.
この事故について彼に過失はない。
He is not at fault for this accident.