Verantwortlichkeitszuordnungen

Verantwortlich is a German adjective meaning responsible or accountable. It describes someone or something that bears obligation for a task, decision, or result. Grammatically, it can be used predicatively ("Er ist verantwortlich") or attributively ("eine verantwortliche Person"). The noun form for a person in charge is der Verantwortliche (m) / die Verantwortliche (f); for responsibility in general the nouns are Verantwortung or Verantwortlichkeit.

In documents and forms, Verantwortlich is commonly used as a heading or label to indicate the person responsible, e.g., "Verantwortlich: Maria Schmidt." In corporate and administrative contexts, it signals accountability for processes, compliance, or outcomes. The related phrase "verantwortlich handeln" means to act responsibly, while "verantwortlich für etwas sein" expresses being in charge of or liable for something.

Translations vary by context: "responsible" or "in charge" for everyday use; "accountable" or "liable" in legal or formal contexts; "Verantwortlichkeit" or "Verantwortung" for the abstract concept. A closely related adjective is verantwortungsvoll, meaning conscientious or morally responsible.

Origin: from the ver- prefix and Verantwortung/Verantwortung, linked to "to answer" or "to bear responsibility." The term remains common in German-speaking administrations, organizations, journalism, and ethics discussions, reflecting a focus on accountability and duties.