odgovorni

Odgovorni is an adjective in Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian, and Montenegrin that means responsible or accountable. It is used to describe people, actions, decisions, or institutions that fulfill duties, act with reliability, and can be held answerable for their conduct. The word stems from the verb odgovoriti/odgovarati and the noun odgovor (answer, response), reflecting the idea that a person who is responsible can give a proper account of their actions.

Forms vary by gender and number in the language: masculine singular form is odgovoran, feminine singular odgovorna, neuter singular odgovorno, with plural forms used for groups or objects. Common phrases include "odgovoran za nešto" (responsible for something), "odgovorna osoba" (a responsible person), and "odgovorno ponašanje" (responsible conduct). In everyday language, one says "On je odgovoran" (He is responsible) or "Oni su odgovorni" (They are responsible).

In governance and business contexts, accountability is framed with the same root: it is expected that individuals and institutions act with integrity and explain their actions to others. "Odgovornost" denotes responsibility or accountability, including legal or ethical obligations. "Odgovorni" is often used in corporate social responsibility discussions, public administration, and journalism when assessing blame or credit.

See also: odgovornost, odgovoran, odgovorna, odgovorno. The term is widely understood across the South Slavic languages and remains a foundational descriptor of duty and reliability.