Nuance & Usage
責任 is a core concept in Japanese society, referring to one's duty or accountability. 責任を取る (sekinin wo toru) means 'to take responsibility,' and is a very important phrase in Japanese business and politics — often implying resignation. 責任感 (sekininkan) means 'sense of responsibility.' 責任者 (sekininsha) means 'the person in charge.' Unlike 義務 (gimu — obligation), 責任 emphasizes personal accountability.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 責任を取る (to take responsibility) with 責任を持つ (to have responsibility/be responsible for something). Taking responsibility (取る) often implies consequences, while having responsibility (持つ) is about being in charge. Also, don't confuse 責任 with 役割 (yakuwari — role). A role is what you do; responsibility is what you're accountable for.
Example Sentences (3)
このミスは私の責任です。
このみすはわたしのせきにんです。
This mistake is my responsibility.
リーダーとして責任を持って行動する。
りーだーとしてせきにんをもってこうどうする。
I will act responsibly as a leader.
子供の安全は親の責任だ。
こどものあんぜんはおやのせきにんだ。
Children's safety is the parents' responsibility.
Quick Quiz
Quick Quiz
N24 questionsTest your knowledge of 責任 with 4 different question types.
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