1. Definition of “Accounted”
“Accounted” is the past tense and past participle of the verb “account.” It has several meanings. One common meaning is to consider or regard someone or something in a particular way. For example, “He was accounted a brilliant scientist in his field,” which means he was considered or thought of as a brilliant scientist. Another meaning is to give an explanation or justification for something. For instance, “She accounted for her absence by saying she was ill,” meaning she provided a reason for her absence. It can also mean to make up or form a part of something. For example, “Imports accounted for a large portion of the country's economic activity,” showing that imports were a significant part of that activity.
2. Synonyms
- Considered
- “Considered” means to think about something carefully or to regard someone or something in a particular way. For example, “She is considered a reliable friend,” which is very similar to saying “She is accounted a reliable friend.” The main difference is that “considered” might focus more on the mental process of thinking and evaluating, while “accounted” can sometimes imply a more established or accepted view within a group or context. However, in many cases, they can be used interchangeably when expressing how someone or something is regarded.
- Regarded
- “Regarded” also means to look upon or think of someone or something in a certain way. For example, “The new policy was regarded with suspicion by many employees.” It is close in meaning to “accounted” when it comes to the sense of perception or how something is seen. “Regarded” often emphasizes the subjective view or attitude towards the subject, similar to how “accounted” can express how people view or categorize something.
- Explained
- “Explained” means to make something clear or understandable by giving details or reasons. When “accounted” is used in the sense of giving an explanation for something, “explained” is a synonym. For example, “He explained his late arrival by telling us about the traffic jam,” which is similar to “He accounted for his late arrival by citing the traffic jam.” The key distinction is that “explained” is more directly focused on clarifying the cause or reason, while “accounted” can have a broader usage that includes this as well as other aspects like considering or making up a part of something.
- Constituted
- “Constituted” means to be or form a part of something, to make up something. When “accounted” is used in the context of being a part of or making up a whole, like in the example “These factors accounted for the success of the project,” “constituted” can be a substitute. For example, “These factors constituted the foundation of the project's success.” “Constituted” emphasizes the idea of forming or being an essential component, which is similar to how “accounted” can show contribution to a particular outcome or situation.