"a sense of responsibility" vs "the sense of responsibility"

Question

"a sense of responsibility" vs "the sense of responsibility"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'The sense of responsibility' is used when referring to a specific, known sense of responsibility, while 'a sense of responsibility' is used when talking about a general or unspecified sense of responsibility.

Last Updated: March 21, 2024

This phrase is used when talking about a general or unspecified sense of responsibility without specifying a particular instance.

Examples:

It is important to have a sense of responsibility towards the environment.
She lacks a sense of responsibility when it comes to completing tasks.
A sense of responsibility is a key trait employers look for in candidates.

Alternatives:

an understanding of responsibility
a feeling of responsibility
a perception of responsibility
an awareness of responsibility
an acknowledgment of responsibility

This phrase is used when talking about a particular sense of responsibility that is already known or specified.

Examples:

She has always shown the sense of responsibility needed for this job.
The sense of responsibility he feels towards his family is admirable.
I appreciate the sense of responsibility you demonstrate in your work.

Alternatives:

the feeling of responsibility
the perception of responsibility
the understanding of responsibility
the awareness of responsibility
the acknowledgment of responsibility

Answer 1

a sense of responsibility

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to a general or unspecified sense of responsibility.

Answer 2

the sense of responsibility

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English when referring to a specific, known sense of responsibility.

"a sense of responsibility" vs "the sense of responsibility"

a sense of responsibility

the sense of responsibility

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