answerability
Noun: 1. The state or condition of being responsible for something or to someone; accountability. This refers to the obligation to explain, justify, or accept the consequences for one's actions, decisions, or duties.
The noun "answerability" is a formal term used to describe the concept of accountability. It is often used in contexts involving governance, ethics, management, and law to denote a clear line of responsibility. * It is commonly followed by the prepositions "for" (indicating responsibility for a thing or activity) or "to" (indicating responsibility to a person or authority). * Example: The minister's answerability for the budget is clear. * Example: The committee has direct answerability to the board of directors.
- The new policy increases the of public officials to the citizens they serve.
- In a democracy, political is a fundamental principle.
- The report emphasized the CEO's personal for the company's environmental practices.
- With great power comes great .
- Legal and Ethical Contexts: "Answerability" is a key concept in legal systems (e.g., corporate answerability) and moral philosophy, where it is closely linked to blameworthiness and liability.
- Distinction from "Responsibility": While often synonymous with "responsibility," "answerability" can more specifically imply the obligation to provide answers or justification. One can have a responsibility without necessarily being called to account, but answerability inherently includes that expectation of being called to answer.
- Answerable (adjective): Being required to explain or justify one's actions; responsible.
- Managers are answerable for their team's performance.
- Accountability (noun): A very close synonym, often used interchangeably with "answerability."
- Liability (noun): Legal responsibility, often with a focus on financial obligation or blame.
- Obligation (noun): A broader term for something one is bound to do, which may or may not involve being called to account.
Accountability, responsibility, liability, amenability.
Unaccountability, irresponsibility, immunity.
- responsibility to someone or for some activity