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to bring somebody to account
01
to formally confront someone and demand an explanation for their conduct and actions, especially those in positions of authority who are deemed responsible
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Idiom
What is the origin of the idiom "bring someone to account" and when to use it?
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.
Examples
The minister was called to account for the failed project.
