# liable

/ˈɫaɪəbəɫ/ (US) · /lˈaɪəbəl/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/liable
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. legally responsible

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

legally responsible for something, such as paying for damage or a mistake.

For teachers: legally responsible or answerable for an act, debt, or damage. Often takes the preposition 'for'.

- If you break the window, you are liable for the cost of the repair.
- The court ruled that the manufacturer was strictly liable for the injuries caused by the defective component, regardless of their safety protocols.

Usage: Usually follows the verb 'to be' and takes the preposition 'for'.

### 2. likely to experience something

adjective · CEFR B2

likely to do something or have something happen to you, usually something bad.

For teachers: subject to or likely to experience a particular negative contingency or state.

- The old wooden bridge is liable to collapse if too many cars use it.
- In this humid climate, iron railings are liable to rust within a few months if they are not treated with protective paint.

Usage: Commonly followed by 'to' and an infinitive verb.

Teaching tip: While 'likely' is neutral, 'liable' almost always introduces a negative or unwanted outcome.

## Examples

- The shop owner is liable for any accidents on the property.
- If you do not have the correct insurance, you may be held personally liable for the repair costs after a car accident.
- In many jurisdictions, manufacturers are strictly liable for injuries caused by defective products, regardless of whether they were negligent during the production process.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.