avoid responsibility

/əˈvɔɪd rɪˈspɒnsəbɪləti/
phraseIntermediate refuse to accept blame or duty
informal

To refuse to accept blame, accountability, or duty for one's actions or decisions.

The manager avoided responsibility by blaming the team for the project's failure.

The manager refused to take blame and instead shifted responsibility to the team.

She avoids responsibility by never committing to long-term plans.

She refuses to take on long-term duties or obligations.

💡

This phrase is often used to describe someone who evades accountability or duty.

Collocations

avoid taking responsibilityrefuse to accept blame or dutyavoid personal responsibilityrefuse to take accountability for one's own actions

Related Phrases

pass the buckidiom
to shift responsibility to someone else
duck responsibilityphrase
to evade accountability

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Use

In formal contexts, consider using 'evade responsibility' or 'shirk accountability' instead.

Gold Rule

Negative Connotation

This phrase often implies criticism, so use it carefully in professional or polite settings.

📖Word Origin

The phrase combines 'avoid' (to keep away from) and 'responsibility' (the state of being accountable).

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts to describe someone who refuses to accept blame or duty. It can carry a negative connotation.

Word Breakdown

avoid
to keep away from
root
+
responsibility
the state of being accountable
root
English Dictionary