account for

verb7

1. •
   To explain by relating circumstances; to show that some one, thing or members of a group are present or have been processed.

   • I don't have to account for anything to you.
   • The storekeeper was expected to account for any material removed.
2. •
   To constitute in amount or portion.

   • German speakers accounted for 37% of the population.
3. •
   To make or render a reckoning of funds, persons, or things.

   • When you deduct the direct and indirect costs, the picture looks a little different. Only mail and coal traffic generated a net revenue when accounting for all costs, not just direct operating costs. — 2023
4. •
   To be the primary cause of

   • The torrential downpour would account for the saturated state of the land.
5. •
   To be answerable for.
6. •
   To destroy or put out of action.

   • Coyotes account for more rabbits than hunters do.
7. •
   (old-fashioned) To kill, as in hunting.

   • He accounted for two deer today.