liable — legally responsible for something
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: legally responsible for something
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈlaɪəbl/
Example Sentences
- My mom said I'm liable for any damage to the car, so I drive like a grandma now.
- The restaurant is liable for food poisoning caused by their expired ingredients.
- You're liable to get kicked out if you keep singing karaoke at 3 AM.
liable
ADJECTIVE[/ˈlaɪəbl/]
legally responsible for something

Drivers who ignore traffic laws are liable for any accidents they cause.

Without a helmet, cyclists are liable to suffer serious injuries. (⚖️ Responsible + ⚠️ Likely → Liable)

A liable mistake made reliable evidence undeniable in court.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Liable derives from French 'lier' (to bind), with the sense evolving from the literal meaning of being bound or tied to the legal sense of being bound by obligation or responsibility. The word entered English through Old French, acquiring the meaning 'subject to or responsible for' in legal contexts.
Breakdown
lie- (to bind, from French lier) + -able (capable of, able to be), literally meaning 'able to be bound' or 'capable of being held responsible'.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My mom said I'm liable for any damage to the car, so I drive like a grandma now.”
“The restaurant is liable for food poisoning caused by their expired ingredients.”
“You're liable to get kicked out if you keep singing karaoke at 3 AM.”
“Students are liable to forget everything they studied if they cram the night before.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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