accountability - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
accountability Word Meanings
- the fact of being responsible for something
- the obligation to report, explain, or justify something
- the quality of being accountable
accountability Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
accountability Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˌkaʊn.təˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/
US
/əˌkaʊn.təˈbɪl.ɪ.ti/
accountability Word Etymology
The root 'account-' comes from the Latin 'computare' meaning 'to count, to calculate'; '-ability' is a suffix denoting capacity or quality. This word evolved from Latin to Old French and then to English. Imagine a ledger where every entry must be justified, representing accountability's essence of being answerable.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Feet planted, I press my palms to the desk and push through the clutter of doubt. I shift through notes, change what I must own, and place the information where it belongs. The effort tightens my chest a little, and I keep moving, adjusting my words until they match what I did. In that moment, accountability stops feeling like a noun and starts feeling like a rhythm I can follow when I own the outcome.
Real Context
Accountability is the state of being answerable for the outcomes of one's actions in work, life, and public institutions. In English, it often sits with responsibility but emphasizes the obligation to explain, justify, and report results to others who are affected or who oversee the work. People encounter accountability in performance reviews, audits, and governance initiatives where leaders and teams must own what happened, acknowledge mistakes, and outline corrective steps. Learners should note collocations such as accountability to shareholders or accountability mechanisms, and distinguish it from mere responsibility or blame. Its origin traces to counting and reporting, reinforcing the idea that nothing should go unfinished or unexplained.
Usage Reminders
- Know how to pair accountability with to and for; remember that accountability is not the same as being blameworthy; use it in governance and audit contexts; avoid sounding punitive when discussing accountability; treat it as a formal reporting obligation, not just a personal trait
Common Misconceptions
- Accountability means blaming others
- Accountability equals punishment
- Only leaders are accountable
- Accountability is optional in most contexts
- Accountability is the same as responsibility
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, accountability often centers on formal reporting and traceable actions. Learners may mistake accountability for mere responsibility or blame, but it includes explaining results to others and justifying decisions.
Learning Tips
- Learn 6 common collocations with accountability such as accountability to the board and accountability mechanisms
- Practice distinguishing accountability from responsibility using contrast examples
- Read governance case studies to see how accountability plays out
- Use clear reporting verbs when discussing accountability like explains, justifies, and reports
- Create short scenarios and decide who is accountable and to whom
- Record and review real world examples of accountability in news or public records
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'accountability'?
A.Being accountable
B.Untrustworthy behavior
C.Noble intentions
D.Joyful attitude
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'accountability' used correctly?
A.She showed great accountability by blaming others for her mistake.
B.Lack of accountability is essential for a team's success.
C.The lack of accountability made the situation better.
D.His accountability in completing the project on time was evident.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'accountability'?
A.Irresponsibility
B.Freedom
C.Transparency
D.Deception
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym for 'accountability'?
A.Reliability
B.Obligation
C.Unreliability
D.Commitment
Step 5: Mastery
How does 'accountability' apply in a real-world situation?
A.Ignoring the consequences of one's actions
B.Avoiding responsibility at all costs
C.Blaming others for personal mistakes
D.Holding someone responsible for their actions
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