Responsibly

rɪˈspɒnsəbli

adverbmediumCommonGeneral

Definitions

1

In a way that shows a sense of responsibility; in a conscientious and reliable way.

rɪˈspɒnsəbli

adverbneutralmedium
General

In a way that shows a sense of responsibility.

He managed his investments responsibly, avoiding high-risk options.

💡 Simply: Acting responsibly is like being a good friend who always keeps their promises. It means you're careful about what you do and how it affects others, like saving your allowance or helping clean up your toys.

👶 For kids: Doing things in a good way, where you know it's the right thing to do and you care about the results!

More Examples

2

The community organized the event and acted responsibly, ensuring everyone's safety.

3

We should dispose of waste responsibly to protect the environment.

How It's Used

Business

"Companies must act responsibly to avoid environmental damage."

Politics

"The government should govern responsibly, considering the needs of all citizens."

Personal Finance

"Spend responsibly by creating a budget and sticking to it."

Idioms & expressions

Act responsibly

To behave in a responsible manner.

"The company promised to act responsibly and address the concerns of its employees."

From the word 'responsible' + '-ly', indicating a manner or way of doing something. 'Responsible' itself comes from the Latin 'respondere' (to answer, to be accountable).

The word's use has increased with the growing focus on ethical conduct, environmental sustainability, and corporate social responsibility in modern times.

Memory tip

Think of RESPONSIBLE as answerable. To act RESPONSIBLY is to act in a way you can answer for.

responsibilyresponsibely

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written