Differences between account for and answer for
Account for usually means to explain or justify something, especially in terms of numbers or statistics, whereas answer for generally means to take responsibility for something, often in a legal or moral sense.
Meanings and Definitions: account for vs answer for
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Account for
- 1To explain.
They had to ACCOUNT FOR all the money that had gone missing.
Answer for
- 1Be held responsible for a problem.
The government should be made to ANSWER FOR their failure to sort out the problem.
- 2Speak on behalf of someone or from knowing them.
I can ANSWER FOR my partner because I know her position on this issue.
Usage Examples: account for, answer for in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
account for
Example
The manager must account for the missing funds.
Example
She accounts for her actions during the meeting.
answer for
Example
The manager must answer for the team's poor performance.
Example
He answers for the mistakes made by his employees.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Account for
To make something clear or understandable by providing reasons or details.
Example
Can you explain why you were late for the meeting?
To show or prove that something is right or reasonable by providing evidence or arguments.
Example
The company needs to justify its decision to lay off employees during the pandemic.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Answer for
To admit or acknowledge one's role in a situation and accept the consequences.
Example
The CEO needs to take responsibility for the company's unethical practices and make amends.
To be responsible or answerable for something, often in a formal or legal sense.
Example
The government officials need to be accountable for their actions and decisions that affect citizens' lives.
Differences in account for vs answer for: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: account for or answer for?
In daily conversation, people use account for more often than answer for. This is because account for is used in various contexts such as accounting, business, and science. Answer for is not used as much, and it's mainly used in legal or moral contexts. So, while both phrases are used, account for is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of account for and answer for
Account for and answer for are both formal phrases often used in professional or academic contexts. They are suitable for formal interactions with colleagues, clients, or professors. In informal settings like casual conversations with friends and family, using alternative expressions can convey a more natural tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of account for and answer for
The tone of account for and answer for can differ based on context. Account for often carries an explanatory or analytical tone when related to numbers or data, while answer for typically has a defensive or apologetic tone, especially when referring to taking responsibility for a mistake or wrongdoing.
