Negligent: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone fails to give the necessary care or attention to something, especially when it leads to a problem. It often has a legal or formal tone.

• The doctor was found negligent for leaving the surgical instruments inside the patient.
• The company was negligent in maintaining safety standards.

When someone acts without sufficient thought or attention, typically resulting in mistakes or accidents. It is commonly used in everyday speech.

• She made a careless mistake on her test.
• He was careless with his phone and dropped it in the water.

When someone is showing a reckless disregard or lack of attention, often ignoring warnings or advice. It has a formal and somewhat literary tone.

• He rushed out, heedless of the danger ahead.
• She spent money heedless of the mounting debt.

When someone neglects a duty or responsibility, often used in a reproachful or critical manner. It carries a formal tone.

• I would be remiss if I didn’t thank everyone who helped me.
• The employee was remiss in performing his duties.

When someone is not paying attention, especially in a setting where attention is expected, like in class or at work. It has a neutral tone.

• The student was inattentive during the lecture.
• He was inattentive to the needs of his family.

Describes a serious lack of care and attention. Often used in legal or formal settings.

• The doctor was found negligent in their duties, leading to a malpractice lawsuit.
• Negligent behavior in maintenance can result in severe safety issues.

Suggests a lack of attention or thought, usually in everyday situations, and may cause minor or major problems.

• He was careless with his words, accidentally hurting his friend's feelings.
• A careless driver swerved into the wrong lane.

Indicates a habitual failure to care or give attention, often related to duties or responsibilities. Negative connotation.

• The neglectful parent was reported to child services.
• Neglectful behavior from the caretaker resulted in the patient's decline.

Implies a failure to fulfill one's duties or obligations, often leading to negative consequences. This word has a negative connotation.

• Leaving your child at home alone is extremely irresponsible.
• She was fired for being irresponsible with company funds.

Refers to performing a task hastily and carelessly, often producing poor results. Informal usage with a negative connotation.

• The report was done in a slapdash manner, full of errors and incomplete sections.
• His slapdash approach to cleaning left many spots untouched.