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Irresponsibility: meaning, definitions and examples

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irresponsibility

 

[ˌɪrɪˈspɒnsəˌbɪlɪti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

character trait

Irresponsibility refers to the lack of accountability or responsibility for one's actions or duties. It can manifest through neglecting obligations, making impulsive decisions, or failing to consider the consequences of one's actions. This behavior often leads to negative outcomes for oneself or others.

Synonyms

carelessness, negligence, recklessness.

Examples of usage

  • His irresponsibility in managing finances led to significant debt.
  • Children may exhibit irresponsibility when they forget their chores.
  • The team's failure to meet deadlines was attributed to their irresponsibility.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word combines the prefix 'ir-' meaning 'not' with 'responsibility,' which comes from the Latin 'responsabilis,' meaning 'able to answer.'
  • 'Responsibility' itself is derived from 'respondere,' which means 'to answer' or 'to promise to follow through.'

Psychology

  • People often display irresponsibility during periods of stress, as they may prioritize immediate relief over other commitments.
  • Research shows that younger individuals are more prone to act irresponsibly due to underdeveloped impulse control in the brain.

Education

  • Classrooms that encourage accountability and responsibility often see improved student engagement and behavior.
  • Teaching children the consequences of irresponsibility can help them develop a sense of personal responsibility in adulthood.

Pop Culture

  • Irresponsibility is a common theme in many comedy movies, where characters face humorous consequences for not taking things seriously.
  • Literature often explores the idea of irresponsibility as a flaw of a character, leading to their dramatic downfall or growth.

Society

  • Irresponsibility can lead to larger societal issues, such as environmental negligence and lack of civic duty.
  • Social movements often arise in response to perceived irresponsibility from institutions, urging change and accountability.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,127, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.