English vocabulary · C1
Liability
/ˌlaɪ.əˈbɪl.ə.t̬i/ · n.
Liability is a person or thing that may cause a problem or cost money. It can make a bad result more likely for you.
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Example sentences
- That rail is a liability.
- Careless work creates liability.
Word origin and roots
from Old French
- lier — bind (from Old French)
Synonyms and nuances
- RISK — chance of harm (Chance Of Harm)
- LOAD — hard weight or duty (Hard To Carry)
- DEBT — money you must pay (Money Owed)
Similar words
- risk
- burden
- drawback
- debt
- responsibility
Lesson notes
Liability is a person or thing that may cause a problem or cost money. It can make a bad result more likely for you.
Related: risk, load, debt. Use liability when harm may cost money.
That rail is a liability. Careless work creates liability.
From Old French. Lier- means bind. Risks bind you to pay: that is liability.