What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
accountable
Example
As a manager, you are accountable for the performance of your team. [accountable: adjective]
Example
The company is held accountable for any environmental damage caused by its operations. [accountable: adjective]
Example
I am accountable to my supervisor for completing this project on time. [accountable: preposition]
answerable
Example
The witness was answerable to the prosecutor's questions during the trial. [answerable: adjective]
Example
The department head is answerable to the CEO for the budget report. [answerable: preposition]
Example
The contractor is answerable for any damages caused during the construction. [answerable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Accountable is more commonly used than answerable in everyday language, but both words can be used interchangeably in many contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between accountable and answerable?
Accountable has a more formal and serious connotation, while answerable can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it more versatile in terms of formality level.
