Irresponsible Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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irresponsible
[หษชrษชหspษnsษbl ]
Definition
behavior
Not showing or done with care for the consequences of one's actions; not responsible.
Synonyms
careless, reckless, unreliable.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| irresponsible |
This word is used to describe someone who doesn't take their duties or obligations seriously, often leading to negative outcomes.
|
| reckless |
This word describes actions or behaviors that show a lack of concern for consequences, often perceived as very dangerous or bold.
|
| careless |
Use this word when describing someone who acts without sufficient attention, leading to mistakes or accidents.
|
| unreliable |
This word is used for someone or something that cannot be depended on, often failing to fulfill responsibilities or perform tasks.
|
Examples of usage
- He was irresponsible with his finances, spending money without thinking of the future.
- She was criticized for her irresponsible behavior at work, not completing tasks on time.
- Being irresponsible can lead to serious consequences, such as losing trust or facing legal issues.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often display irresponsible behavior when they have certain personality traits, such as high impulsivity and low conscientiousness.
- A study found that those who act irresponsibly may struggle with future planning due to difficulty in imagining the consequences of their actions.
Pop Culture
- Irresponsible characters in movies or shows often serve as comic relief, highlighting the contrast with more serious characters.
- Icons of irresponsibility, like Peter Pan, represent a refusal to grow up and take on adult responsibilities, making them memorable in stories.
Education
- Teaching responsibility is an important part of childhood education, helping children learn the value of reliability and accountability.
- Some educational models focus specifically on social and emotional learning to combat irresponsible behavior among students.
Legal
- In legal terms, irresponsibility can be used to describe neglect or failure to uphold oneโs obligations, like parenting or financial duties.
- Certain laws hold individuals liable for irresponsible actions, such as driving under the influence.
Origin of 'irresponsible'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the prefix 'ir-' meaning 'not' and 'responsible', which has roots in Latin that mean 'to be answerable' or 'to promise'.
- The term began to appear in English in the early 19th century, evolving from earlier uses of 'responsible' in legal contexts.
The word 'irresponsible' originated from the prefix 'ir-' meaning 'not' and 'responsible' from the Latin 'responsabilis', which means 'to be accountable'. The term has been in use since the 18th century and is commonly used to describe individuals or actions lacking in accountability or care.
See also: irresponsibly, responsibly.