they are responsible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they are responsible" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone or something being held accountable or answerable for something. For example, "The company held a meeting to discuss who would be responsible for the project's completion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They are responsible for the data's integrity.

The New York Times

It isn't what they are responsible or accountable for.

The New Yorker

(Barefooters say they are responsible for their injuries).

The New York Times

We want them to realise what they are responsible for.

The Guardian

In the end, they are responsible for themselves," he continued.

The New Yorker

"They are good builders and they are responsible".

The New York Times

Together they are responsible for national milk advertising.

The New York Times

They are responsible for all the killings".

BBC

They are responsible for assigning social workers.

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

They are responsible for both recovery and environmental problems.

Journal of Petroleum Science and Engineering

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

[They] are responsible for whatever has happened in Lahore.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they are responsible", clearly specify what they are responsible for to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "They are responsible", write "They are responsible for project management".

Common error

Avoid using "they are responsible" without a clear antecedent for "they". Ensure the reader knows exactly who or what "they" refers to. For example, instead of assuming the reader knows, clarify: "The project managers are responsible for the budget."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they are responsible" serves as a declarative statement indicating accountability or obligation. Ludwig examples show its usage across contexts to assign responsibility for various actions, outcomes, or conditions, as also confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

54%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they are responsible" is a common and grammatically sound way to indicate accountability or duty. Ludwig examples confirm its widespread use across diverse sources, including news, scientific articles, and general writing. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness. When using this phrase, ensure the antecedent of "they" is clear and the specific responsibility is well-defined to avoid ambiguity. Alternative phrases like "they are accountable" or "they are liable" can provide nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they are accountable

This alternative emphasizes being answerable for actions or decisions.

they are liable

This alternative suggests legal responsibility or obligation.

they are in charge

This indicates a position of authority and control.

they are tasked with

This focuses on the specific duties or assignments given to them.

they are obligated

This implies a moral or legal duty to fulfill.

it's their duty

Shifts the focus to the inherent obligation they possess.

they bear the responsibility

Highlights the burden or weight of the obligation.

they are the ones in control

Emphasizes authority and decision-making power.

they are held to account

Focuses on the expectation of being answerable for their actions.

they answer for

Highlights the act of being answerable for actions or outcomes.

FAQs

How can I use "they are responsible" in a sentence?

You can use "they are responsible" to indicate accountability or duty. For example, "They are responsible for the outcome" or "They are responsible for the damage".

What are some alternatives to saying "they are responsible"?

Alternatives include phrases like "they are accountable", "they are liable", or "they are in charge", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "they're responsible"?

Yes, "they're responsible" is a grammatically correct contraction of "they are responsible". Both forms are acceptable and commonly used.

What's the difference between "they are responsible" and "they are to blame"?

"They are responsible" indicates a duty or obligation, while "they are to blame" implies fault or culpability. Responsibility doesn't necessarily mean someone is at fault, just that they have a duty.