accountability

American  

[uh-koun-tuh-bil-i-tee] / əˌkaʊn təˈbɪl ɪ ti /

noun

1. the state of being accountable, liable, or answerable.

2. Education. a policy of holding schools and teachers accountable for students' academic progress by linking such progress with funding for salaries, maintenance, etc.

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Usage

What does accountability mean? Accountability is the obligation to explain, justify, and take responsibility for one's actions. Accountability is the state of being accountable, meaning responsible for something or obligated to answer to someone, such as a person with more authority, like a boss. The word accountability is often used in the context of individuals, especially in the term personal accountability. It is also commonly used in the context of institutions or people that are responsible to the public, such as the government, its agencies, politicians, and the media. Accountability is often discussed with transparency and consequences. This typically involves keeping people and organizations accountable by making their actions visible and having consequences when those actions are not acceptable. Example: The system of checks and balances is intended to ensure accountability among the different branches of government.

Other Word Forms

• nonaccountability
  noun

Etymology

Origin of accountability

First recorded in 1785–95; account(able) + -ability

Explanation

If you take responsibility for your own actions, you show accountability. Stepping up and admitting it when you break something shows accountability. Accountability is a noun that describes accepting responsibility, and it can be personal or very public. A government has accountability for decisions and laws affecting its citizens; an individual has accountability for acts and behaviors. Sometimes, though, taking accountability means admitting you made a mistake. Punishment may result, but accountability shows ownership and a willingness to admit mistakes.

Example Sentences

"I don't think I've ever seen this kind of push for accountability before from a huge conglomerate family," he added.

From Barron's • May 25, 2026

The review indicates that growing the materials segment is management’s core priority, and that accountability is increasing at the Belgian chemicals company, Bernstein says.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

A spokesperson for the No One Above group of survivors said the Met's current investigation had no realistic prospect of delivering accountability because it was too narrowly focused.

From BBC • May 20, 2026

Chopra said in his February statement that he was now focused on “supporting accountability, prevention and efforts that protect and support survivors.”

From Salon • May 19, 2026

From what I could see, there simply was no commitment to the rule of law, no accountability, and little shame.

From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson

Related Words

• liability