B2nounworksociety
US/rɪˌspɑːn.səˈbɪl.ə.ti/
UK/rɪˌspɒn.səˈbɪl.ə.ti/
a duty to deal with or take care of something, so you are blamed if it goes wrong
In context
As team leader, she has responsibility for training new staff.
The company refused to take responsibility for the data leak.
Parents have a responsibility to teach their children about online safety.
Words that go with responsibility
verb + noun
- take responsibilityYou need to take responsibility for your own learning.
- accept responsibilityThe driver accepted full responsibility for the accident.
- have a responsibilityWe all have a responsibility to keep our streets clean.
- share responsibilityMy husband and I share responsibility for the housework.
noun + preposition
- responsibility forWho has responsibility for the company's social media?
adjective + noun
- social responsibilityBig companies should show more social responsibility.
- personal responsibilityStaying healthy is partly a matter of personal responsibility.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
We have responsibility with our parents.Correct: We have a responsibility to our parents.