If repeating, renaming, and reframing doesn’t work and the person you’re communicating with still won’t let go until blame is assigned, go ahead and assign it—to the situation. Try “I’m sorry there was a miscommunication/misinterpretation/things weren’t clear.” Some people won’t quit until they hear “I’m sorry,” and while you’re not saying it was your fault, you are giving them a truthful concession, since chances are you’re more than sorry to be stuck in this situation with them.
