Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for responsible. Search instead for responsib.
Definitions

responsible

[ri-spon-suh-buhl] / rɪˈspɒn sə bəl /
ADJECTIVE
accountable, in charge
Synonyms
STRONGEST
answerable culpable guilty liable pledged subject
WEAK
at fault at the helm authoritative bonded bound bound to carrying the load censurable chargeable compelled constrained contracted decision-making devolving on duty-bound engaged executive exposed fettered hampered held high in authority in control incumbent minding the store obligated obliged on the hook open susceptive sworn to tied to blame under contract under obligation
Antonyms
STRONGEST
innocent right unaccountable
WEAK
excused exempt free immature immune irresponsible untrustworthy
ADJECTIVE
trustworthy, mature
Synonyms
STRONGEST
able capable competent conscientious effective efficient loyal rational reliable sensible
WEAK
adult dependable dutiful faithful firm levelheaded qualified self-reliant sober sound stable steadfast steady tried trusty upright
Antonyms
STRONGEST
impotent incapable incompetent ineffective inefficient inept irresponsible powerless unable unrealistic unreasonable useless weak
WEAK
excused exempt free immature immune untrustworthy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Instead of erecting burdensome bureaucratic roadblocks that would stifle progress, we should encourage responsible innovation that serves human dignity and the common good.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

“Gentle massage of these areas is believed to help promote blood circulation, relax the muscles responsible for focusing and relieve visual fatigue,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2026

"The star has so little carbon that it suggests an early sprinkling of cosmic dust is responsible for making it," said Ji.

From Science Daily • Apr. 4, 2026

Within each FDE pod, engineers occupied different roles: McCardel served as an “Echo,” the strategist responsible for translating the customer’s needs into technical requirements, while “Delta” engineers rapidly developed prototype software solutions.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

Was Melissa responsible for ruining her own number?

From "Hopping Mad (The Hardy Boys: Secret Files, #4)" by Franklin W. Dixon

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.