Negligence: meaning, definitions and examples

A legal term easily used in formal contexts to describe a failure to exercise proper care that results in damage or injury.

• The doctor's negligence led to severe complications for the patient

A more casual term that describes a lack of attention or consideration, often in everyday situations and usually less severe than negligence.

• Her carelessness caused her to spill coffee on the new carpet

Can be used in both personal and professional contexts to indicate a failure to care for someone or something. It has a slightly negative tone.

• The plants died due to neglect while we were on vacation

A formal and strong term often used in organizational or occupational contexts to denote the willful neglect of duty or responsibilities. It usually carries a negative connotation.

• The officer was dismissed from service due to dereliction of duty

Refers to the failure to take proper care in doing something, often used in legal or formal situations.

• The company was sued for negligence after the accident.
• His negligence led to a significant loss of data.

Describes a lack of attention or thought in doing something, often resulting in mistakes or accidents. It can be used more informally.

• Her carelessness caused the glass to break.
• Carelessness while driving can lead to dangerous situations.

Implies the act of failing to care for something properly, can be used in both personal and professional contexts.

• The garden became overgrown due to neglect.
• Child neglect is a serious issue that must be addressed.

Indicates a lack of interest, concern, or sympathy, often with a negative implication regarding someone's feelings or actions.

• His indifference to the problem upset many people.
• She showed indifference towards the project, putting in minimal effort.