1
Explain a result
Provide a cause or satisfactory explanation.
Example
Temperature differences may account for the variation.
account for
/əˈkaʊnt fɔː/ · uh-KOWNT FORcause-and-effect phrase
To explain something or constitute a specified portion of it.
Use account for when the context supports this precise meaning: to explain something or constitute a specified portion of it.
What account for Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Make up a proportion
Constitute part of a total.
Example
Online sales account for half of the company’s revenue.
3
Allow for responsibility
Explain the whereabouts or use of something.
Example
The inventory accounts for every recovered object.
Use account for Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Temperature differences may account for the variation.
Online sales account for half of the company’s revenue.
The inventory accounts for every recovered object.
Precision Matters
Account for overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
account for
vs.Means to explain something or constitute a specified portion of it.
explain
Means make an idea or cause clear.
account for
vs.Means to explain something or constitute a specified portion of it.
constitute
Means form or make up a whole or part.
account for
vs.Means to explain something or constitute a specified portion of it.
corroborate
Means confirm or support a statement with additional evidence.
account for
vs.Means to explain something or constitute a specified portion of it.
overlook
Means fail to notice or consider.
Test account for in Context
The moisture difference may explain the observed result.
1
Differences in soil moisture may ___ the faster growth observed in the northern plots.