Simple Definition:

Accountability is the concept of being responsible for one’s actions, decisions, and obligations [duties]. This means being answerable [having to provide an explanation] to someone or something for the outcomes of those actions or decisions. Accountability involves taking ownership, acknowledging mistakes, and accepting consequences.

For example:

• In a workplace, employees are accountable for completing their assigned tasks and meeting deadlines. If they fail to do so, they may face disciplinary action.
• In a relationship, partners are accountable for their words and actions towards each other. If one person consistently breaks their promises, the other person may question their accountability.

Very Simple Definition:

Accountability means taking responsibility for what you do and accepting the consequences.

For example:

• If you borrow a friend’s toy and accidentally break it, being accountable means admitting that you broke it and offering to fix or replace it.
• When you are given a chore at home, being accountable means completing it without being reminded or supervised.