answer for
Be responsible for something bad that happened, or promise that someone else is reliable.
Meanings
To be held responsible for something, especially a wrong action, and to face its consequences.
"One day he will have to answer for the way he treated his employees."
"They will answer for their crimes."
— Commonly used phrase in legal and political discourse; attested in numerous parliamentary records and court proceedings.
To speak in support of someone or to vouch for their character or reliability.
"I can answer for her honesty — she has never let me down."
To be the cause of something, often something negative (used to express blame).
"Stress has a lot to answer for when it comes to poor health."
Has two quite different senses: (1) facing consequences for wrongdoing, and (2) vouching for someone. The first sense is more common and often used in legal or moral contexts. 'You'll answer for this' is a classic threat implying future accountability.
Commonly used with
Forms
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