Answerability: meaning, definitions and examples
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answerability
[ ˌansərəˈbɪlɪti ]
in a philosophical context
The quality of being able to provide a response or answer, especially in a deep or meaningful way. It involves the capacity to offer explanations or solutions to complex questions or problems.
Synonyms
accountability, responsibility, responsiveness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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answerability |
Use in formal contexts where there is a need to emphasize the obligation to answer for one's actions.
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responsiveness |
Used to highlight the ability to respond quickly and effectively. Often used in customer service or contexts where timely reaction is important.
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accountability |
Commonly used in professional and official settings where there is an expectation of reporting and being held responsible for specific tasks or actions.
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responsibility |
A general term that is used in everyday language and formal settings to denote the duty to deal with something or to take care of someone. It can be broad and is often positive.
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Examples of usage
- Her answerability in the debate impressed everyone present.
- The professor's answerability to difficult queries is well-known among his students.
in a legal context
The state of being legally responsible or accountable for one's actions or decisions. It implies the obligation to justify one's behavior or decisions in a court of law.
Synonyms
culpability, liability, obligation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
answerability |
Use this word when referring to a person's responsibility to provide answers or explanations for their actions. It often suggests accountability but doesn't inherently carry a negative connotation.
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liability |
Use this word in legal or financial contexts to refer to one's legal responsibility or obligations, often related to potential consequences or risks.
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culpability |
This term is appropriate when discussing blame or guilt for something wrong or harmful. It carries a negative connotation.
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obligation |
This word is suitable when discussing duties, responsibilities, or commitments that someone is morally or legally bound to fulfill. It does not inherently carry a positive or negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The company's answerability for the environmental damage caused by its activities is being investigated.
- The defendant's answerability in the court case will be determined by the evidence presented.
Translations
Translations of the word "answerability" in other languages:
🇵🇹 responsabilidade
🇮🇳 उत्तरदायित्व
🇩🇪 Verantwortlichkeit
🇮🇩 tanggung jawab
🇺🇦 відповідальність
🇵🇱 odpowiedzialność
🇯🇵 責任
🇫🇷 responsabilité
🇪🇸 responsabilidad
🇹🇷 sorumluluk
🇰🇷 책임
🇸🇦 مسؤولية
🇨🇿 odpovědnost
🇸🇰 zodpovednosť
🇨🇳 责任
🇸🇮 odgovornost
🇮🇸 ábyrgð
🇰🇿 жауапкершілік
🇬🇪 პასუხისმგებლობა
🇦🇿 məsuliyyət
🇲🇽 responsabilidad
Etymology
The term 'answerability' emerged in the late 19th century, derived from the word 'answerable,' which has roots in Middle English and Old French. It reflects the concept of being accountable or responsive to questions, challenges, or legal requirements. Over time, 'answerability' has evolved to encompass both philosophical and legal contexts, emphasizing the notion of providing responses or justifications.
See also: answerable, answerably, answerer, answerers.