die Rechenschaft
account · accountability
The German word "Rechenschaft" is a noun that means "accountability" or "explanation". It is composed of "Rechnung" (account or bill) and "Schafft" (a form of the verb "schaffen," meaning "to create" or "to make"). Essentially, it refers to the obligation to explain or justify one's actions or decisions.
Similar words in German include "Verantwortung" (responsibility) and "Bericht" (report).
The difference is that while "Rechenschaft" emphasizes the act of providing justification or answers for actions, "Verantwortung" refers more broadly to the responsibility one has for those actions. "Bericht" typically refers to a formal report and might not inherently involve accountability.
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Examples
Er muss Rechenschaft für sein Handeln ablegen.noun
He must give an account of his actions.
Er muss vor dem Vorgesetzten Rechenschaft ablegen.noun
He must give an account to the superior.
Niemand möchte so oft Rechenschaft abgeben.noun
Nobody wants to give an account so often.
Er fordert von ihr Rechenschaft über ihre Taten.noun
He demands accountability from her for her actions.
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