Definition

A duty or obligation that someone is responsible for; it can also refer to the state of being accountable for something.

Example

Taking care of your pet is a big responsibility.

Conversation

I feel like taking a break from my responsibility at work.

I understand, sometimes it gets overwhelming.

Yeah, but I also know I can’t just ignore my responsibility forever.

True, maybe you can delegate some tasks to lighten the load.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Responsibility → It is formed from "respondere" (meaning to respond) and "-ability" (meaning the quality of being able to). The word "responsibility" refers to the quality of being able to respond or being accountable for something.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'able to respond' — 'respondere' means to respond, and '-ability' indicates the quality of that ability.

Visually Confused Words