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accountability

uh-kown-tuh-BIL-it-ee /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/

nounC1GMATGRE

formalbusiness

The fact or condition of being required or expected to justify actions or decisions; responsibility.

Responsibility can be shared, but accountability usually rests with one person who 'answers' for the outcome.

The story behind the word. It shares the same root as 'accounting.' Originally, it meant being called to 'count up' or give a financial report of what you had done with resources.

Word relationships

responsibility: Responsibility is the obligation to act; accountability is the obligation to explain the result.

irresponsibility: A lack of care or concern for one's duties.

Commonly confused with

liability: Liability is a legal obligation to pay; accountability is a moral or professional obligation to answer.

Word family

accountable (adjective): Required to justify actions.
account (verb): To give a report or explanation.

Collocations

hold someone accountable
personal accountability
clear accountability

Idioms & expressions

the buck stops here

Example sentences

"Without accountability, the culture of the company began to slide into finger-pointing and blame." Discussing leadership failures.

Memory hook

If you are accountable, you must give an 'Account' of your 'Ability'. Accountability = Answerable for actions.

When not to use

Don't use it for simple chores; use it for high-stakes professional obligations.

Fun facts

In the 18th century, 'accountability' was rarely used outside of financial contexts; today it is a cornerstone of management theory.

Related words

transparency, collaboration

Explore more words

accountable, answerable, liability, take responsibility, transparency, governance