Meaning of the word "account for" in English

What does "account for" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

account for

US /əˈkaʊnt fɔːr/
UK /əˈkaʊnt fɔːr/
"account for" picture

Phrasal Verb

1.

to explain the reason for something or to be the cause of something

Example:
The bad weather accounted for the delay.
Can you account for your absence yesterday?
2.

to form the total of something; to constitute

Example:
Women account for 60% of the students.
These new features account for a significant portion of the software's appeal.
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