Word
responsibly
Phoneticsre·spon·si·bly, stress on the second syllable
US/ɹɪˈspɑnsəbɫi/
UK/ɹɪspˈɒnsəbli/
Adverb of manner
Definition
adv. to do something in a sensible way that shows you care about the results. It means you are being careful and can be trusted to do the right thing.
adv. in a sensible and trustworthy manner that demonstrates accountability. Often modifies verbs related to consumption, financial management, or social conduct.
Examples
“Please enjoy your drinks responsibly.”
“The company promised to source its materials responsibly to protect the local environment.”
“To manage the inheritance responsibly, she consulted with several financial advisors before making any significant investments or long-term commitments.”
Examples
simple
“Please enjoy your drinks responsibly.”
contextual
“The company promised to source its materials responsibly to protect the local environment.”
complex
“To manage the inheritance responsibly, she consulted with several financial advisors before making any significant investments or long-term commitments.”
Usage
Typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of the clause.
Pitfall
He behaves responsible in his job.
He behaves responsibly in his job.
Learners often use the adjective 'responsible' when the adverbial form 'responsibly' is required to modify a verb.
Real-World Examples
“The eSafety commission said many companies were placing responsibility on consumers to use the glasses safely but said “asking people to use a product responsibly is not an adequate safety policy”.” “Much of the conversation in business education to date has centered on helping students learn how to use AI responsibly and effectively.” Etymology
From responsible + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/responsibly