hand over accounts; report back on a duty
Meanings
2 senses · 7 examplesverb
to hand over accounts; to transfer financial records
formalUsed in business or formal contexts when responsibility for financial records is being passed on.
Before leaving his job at the end of the month, he needs to hand over the accounts to the new accountant.
The manager is preparing materials for a smooth handover of accounts.
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The handover process for the finance department includes inventory checks and transferring accounts.
verb
to report back; to account for one's actions; to explain one's responsibility
informalA metaphorical extension of the original meaning. Often used when someone must explain their actions or outcomes to a superior, parent, or someone to whom they are accountable.
If you catch a cold, how am I going to explain it to your dad? (lit. how am I going to account for this to your dad?)
If this project fails, we won't be able to face the boss (lit. we won't be able to account for it to the boss).
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The child returned safely, so I can finally feel relieved (lit. my anxious heart can finally account for itself).
You have to give me an explanation, otherwise I can't account for this to the client.