responsibly

UK: /rɪˈspɒnsəbli/

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026

re•spon•si•ble /rɪˈspɑnsəbəl/   adj. 

1. accountable, as for something within one's power:
   [be + ~ + for] The children are responsible for setting the table.
2. involving responsibility:
   a responsible position.
3. able to be given the blame or credit for being the source of something:
   [be + ~ + for] Who is responsible for this mess?
4. having a capacity for moral decisions:
   [be + ~] The defendant is insane and not responsible for his actions.
5. reliable or dependable;
   trustworthy:
   a mature, responsible young adult.

re•spon•si•bly, adv.: 

Will they behave responsibly?

See -spond-.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026

re•spon•si•ble  (ri spon′sə bəl), adj. 

1. answerable or accountable, as for something within one's power, control, or management (often fol. by to or for):
   He is responsible to the president for his decisions.
2. involving accountability or responsibility:
   a responsible position.
3. chargeable with being the author, cause, or occasion of something (usually fol. by for):
   Termites were responsible for the damage.
4. having a capacity for moral decisions and therefore accountable;
   capable of rational thought or action:
   The defendant is not responsible for his actions.
5. able to discharge obligations or pay debts.
6. reliable or dependable, as in meeting debts, conducting business dealings, etc.
7. Government (of a government, member of a government, government agency, or the like) answerable to or serving at the discretion of an elected legislature or the electorate.

• Latin respōns(us) (see response) + -ible
• 1590–1600

re•spon′si•ble•ness, n. 
re•spon′si•bly, adv. 
Synonyms

• 1. liable.
• 4. competent.
• 5. solvent.
• 6. honest, capable, reliable, trustworthy.