Accountability

Definition

Accountability is the obligation or willingness to accept responsibility for one's actions and decisions, often with the expectation of transparency and answerability to others.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/
• Respelling: uh-KOWN-tuh-BIL-uh-tee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/
• Respelling: uh-KOWN-tuh-BIL-uh-tee

The pronunciation of "accountability" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "accountability" originates from the Latin "computare," meaning "to calculate or reckon." It evolved through Old French "acont" (to reckon) and entered English as "account" in Middle English. The suffix "-ability" was later added, creating "accountability," which emphasizes responsibility and answerability.

Derivatives

• Accountable (adjective)
• Account (noun, verb)
• Accountability partner (noun)
• Accountableness (noun, rare)
• Unaccountable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Responsibility
• Answerability
• Transparency

Antonyms

• Irresponsibility
• Unaccountability
• Non-liability

Usage

The term "accountability" is used across sectors such as government, business, and education to stress the importance of responsible and ethical behavior. In corporate contexts, accountability often involves answering to stakeholders, while in governance, it underscores the responsibility of public officials to their constituents. In education, students and educators may have shared accountability for learning outcomes. Accountability is central to transparent practices, ensuring individuals and organizations fulfill their commitments and respond openly to any consequences of their actions.

Related Terms

• Responsibility: The duty to handle tasks and duties effectively and ethically.
• Liability: The state of being legally responsible for something.
• Transparency: The quality of being open and honest in actions or intentions.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The obligation to be responsible and answerable for actions or decisions: Implies a duty to be open and responsive to others regarding one's behavior.
  • Example: "The manager emphasized accountability in handling client projects."
• A quality or state of transparency in performance and actions: Refers to demonstrating openness and readiness to justify one’s conduct.
  • Example: "Public officials are held to high standards of accountability."