Explain the reasons for, giving an indication of all relevant circumstances. Not to be confused with 'Give an account of' which asks only for a detailed description.
Asks candidates to explain a particular happening or outcome. Candidates are expected to present a reasoned case for the existence of something. For example: Why is conformity difficult to resist? Account for the dynamics of conformity.
state reasons for, report on. Give an account of: narrate a series of events or transactions
be the reason or explanation for; "The recession accounts for the slow retail business"
give reasons for; "Can you account for all these absences?"
Give the details of, give the reasons or the underlying cause of
Explain, clarify, give reasons for. (Quite different from 'Give an account of' which is more like 'describe in detail').
How do you accountfor your three-day absence without leave
Explain how a particular event or situation came about i.e. 'Which factors would have led a large retailing company to.......'