[bring|call] {sb} to account
1
to formally confront someone and demand an explanation for their conduct and actions, especially those in positions of authority who are deemed responsible
The idiom "bring someone to account" originated from the Middle English period and has roots in Old French and Latin. The word "account" comes from the Old French word "aconter," which means "to reckon" or "to count." This term was derived from the Latin word "computare," meaning "to calculate." Over time, it came to be used in legal and administrative contexts to refer to the act of holding someone responsible or making them answer for their actions.
- The committee is determined to bring the corrupt officials to account for their embezzlement.
- The investigative team is working tirelessly to gather evidence and bring the accused to account.
- The organization's code of conduct ensures that employees are called to account for any ethical violations.
- The ongoing investigation is focused on bringing the mastermind behind the corruption network to account.
- The public's demand for justice is fueling the efforts to call the accused to account in a transparent manner.