These characters combine to literally mean “did wrong (completed).” It’s a simple, logical, and powerful phrase.
In both Western and Chinese cultures, admitting a mistake can be difficult. However, the cultural framing is slightly different. In Chinese culture, which is heavily influenced by Confucian values of harmony and social order, admitting you 做错了 can be a crucial step in restoring balance to a situation. While it might seem like a way to “lose face” (面子, miànzi), a sincere and timely admission of fault is often seen as a sign of maturity, responsibility, and courage. By stating “我做错了 (Wǒ zuò cuò le),” you are taking ownership of the problem, which allows the group (a family, a team, etc.) to move forward and find a solution. This proactive approach is often more valued than trying to hide a mistake, which would cause a much greater loss of face if discovered later. Compare this to a common Western individualistic tendency, where admitting fault can sometimes be perceived as a sign of weakness or be avoided for legal reasons (“never admit liability”). In China, a direct admission is often the first and most important step toward an apology and reconciliation. It's about acknowledging the objective reality of the error to repair the subjective relationship.
做错了 is an extremely common and versatile phrase used in almost all aspects of life.
Its connotation is neutral to negative (as it describes an error), and its formality is broad. It can be used with family, friends, colleagues, and superiors, though in highly formal situations, a more specific explanation might be required.