Responsible
/rɪˈspɒnsəbəl/
Definitions
2 meaningsAccountable or answerable for something; being the cause of something; reliable and trustworthy.
/rɪˈspɒnsəbəl/
Being the cause of something; accountable.
She is responsible for organizing the event.
💡 Simply: Imagine you promised to feed your pet and then the pet gets hungry. You are RESPONSIBLE for making sure your pet eats! It's like having a job and making sure you do it.
👶 For kids: When you're responsible, it means you do what you're supposed to do and take care of things. Like, if you're responsible for your toys, you keep them neat!
More Examples
The company is responsible for the quality of its products.
He feels responsible for the accident.
How It's Used
"The manager is responsible for the team's performance."
"The company was held responsible for the environmental damage."
"Parents are responsible for their children's actions."
Showing good judgment; being sensible and reliable.
/rɪˈspɒnsəbəl/
Having mature qualities; showing good judgment.
She is a responsible student who always completes her assignments.
💡 Simply: Being responsible also means acting like a grown-up. For example, if you're responsible, you'll save your allowance for something you really want rather than spending it all on candy!
👶 For kids: Being responsible can mean you act like a grown-up sometimes! Like when you listen, follow rules, and do your chores without complaining.
More Examples
The company is committed to responsible environmental practices.
He is raising his children to be responsible adults.
How It's Used
"He is a responsible young man."
"A responsible parent ensures their children's safety."
Synonyms
Accountable
Dependable
Liable
Obligated
Reliable
Careful
Mature
Prudent
Idioms & expressions
take responsibility
To admit that you are the cause of something bad that has happened and that you will do something about it.
"He took responsibility for the mistake."
assume responsibility
To accept a duty or obligation.
"The new manager assumed responsibility for the department's turnaround."
be held responsible
To be blamed or considered to be the cause of something, often something negative.
"The company will be held responsible for the pollution."
From Middle English 'respounse' (answer) + '-able' (capable of). The word evolved from the capacity to answer for one's actions or be held accountable.
The word 'responsible' has been used since the 17th century and initially pertained to the ability to answer for one's actions. Over time, the meaning expanded to include trustworthiness and reliability.
Memory tip
Think of 'response' - if you're responsible, you're ready to give an answer.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: respondere