C1adjectiveformal3K

Liable

UK /["/ˈlaɪəbl/"]/US /["/ˈlaɪəbl/"]/

Definition

legally responsible for paying the cost of something

In simple words: Responsible for something, especially bad.

Examples

The company is liable for any damages caused by its products.
Parents can be held liable if their children commit vandalism.
She is liable to catch a cold if she doesn’t wear a coat in this weather.
He was liable to make mistakes when he was under a lot of stress.
Many retailers are liable for collecting sales tax on behalf of the government.
The patient is liable to experience side effects from the medication.

Usage notes

Used in legal contexts to indicate responsibility. Avoid in casual conversations. Often means someone can be held accountable for their actions.

Grammar pattern

be + liable + to + verb

Memory hint

Think of 'lie-able' — someone who lies can be responsible for problems.

Collocations

be
become
remain
strictly
fully
potentially
for

Synonyms

responsible
accountable
answerable
guilty
subject

Antonyms

innocent
blameless
exempt

Common mistakes

Confusing 'liable' with 'libel'.
Using 'liable' without the correct preposition.
'Liable' is often misused in colloquial speech.