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Foolhardily: meaning, definitions and examples

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foolhardily

 

[ fuːlˈhɑːrdɪli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

reckless behavior

Foolhardily describes an action taken with recklessness and a lack of consideration for potential consequences. It implies a shunning of caution that often leads to risky outcomes. When someone acts foolhardily, they may seem brave or daring, but their decisions are typically ill-considered and could result in harm or failure. This term reflects a certain bravado that can be appealing in adventurous situations but is often viewed negatively.

Synonyms

audaciously, brashly, rashly, recklessly

Examples of usage

  • He foolhardily jumped into the water without checking for sharks.
  • She foolhardily ignored the warnings about the storm.
  • They foolhardily decided to climb the mountain without proper gear.
  • The team foolhardily launched the project without sufficient planning.

Translations

Translations of the word "foolhardily" in other languages:

🇵🇹 temerariamente

🇮🇳 बेवकूफी से

🇩🇪 töricht

🇮🇩 ceroboh

🇺🇦 безрозсудно

🇵🇱 nierozważnie

🇯🇵 無謀に

🇫🇷 témérairement

🇪🇸 temerariamente

🇹🇷 dikkatsizce

🇰🇷 무모하게

🇸🇦 بتهور

🇨🇿 bezohledně

🇸🇰 bezohľadne

🇨🇳 鲁莽地

🇸🇮 nepremišljeno

🇮🇸 fáránlega

🇰🇿 сақсыз

🇬🇪 ბედისწერით

🇦🇿 məntiqsizcə

🇲🇽 temerariamente

Word origin

The word 'foolhardily' is derived from the combination of 'foolhardy,' which itself is a blend of 'fool' and 'hardy.' The term 'fool' is rooted in Old French 'fol,' meaning silly or foolish, while 'hardy' comes from Middle French 'hardi,' meaning bold or brave. The term came into use in English in the late 16th century, originally referring to a person who acted in a reckless or foolish manner. Its evolution reflects changing attitudes toward risk and courage, often highlighting the fine line between bravery and foolishness. The adverbial form 'foolhardily' emerged later to describe the manner of action typical of such risky behavior. Over the centuries, it has been used to depict various scenarios, from military exploits to everyday decisions, emphasizing the often unpredictable nature of human bravery.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,955, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.