Recklessly: meaning, definitions and examples

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recklessly

[ˈrɛkləsli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

driving

in a careless or unthinking manner

Synonyms

carelessly, heedlessly, rashly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
recklessly	Typically used when someone is behaving dangerously or without considering possible negative consequences. Often implies a high level of risk. He drove recklessly down the highway, nearly causing several accidents
carelessly	Used when someone is not paying enough attention to their actions, often leading to mistakes or accidents. It suggests a lack of thoroughness or attention. She carelessly left the door unlocked, which allowed the thief to enter
heedlessly	Suggests ignoring warnings or advice, showing a lack of attention or regard for rules and consequences. He walked heedlessly into the restricted area despite the warning signs
rashly	Employed when someone acts without thinking things through, often impulsive and leading to regrettable decisions. She rashly decided to quit her job without having another one lined up

Examples of usage

She drove recklessly through the busy intersection.
He acted recklessly by investing all his money in a risky venture.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

behavior

without thinking about the consequences of one's actions

Synonyms

foolishly, impulsively, irresponsibly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
recklessly	This word is used when someone acts without considering the consequences or dangers, often in a way that risks harm or damage. He drove recklessly through the crowded streets She spent the company's money recklessly
impulsively	This is used for actions taken quickly without careful thought, often driven by sudden emotion or desire. The behavior might be spontaneous but not well-considered. She impulsively bought a dress she didn't really need He impulsively decided to quit his job
foolishly	This word is appropriate when someone does something silly or lacking common sense, often leading to negative consequences. There is a connotation of immaturity or a lack of wisdom. He foolishly forgot to bring an umbrella on a rainy day She foolishly invested all her savings in a risky business
irresponsibly	This is used when someone acts without considering their duties or the effects on others, showing a lack of responsibility. There is often a sense of neglect or disregard for obligations. He irresponsibly missed his work deadlines She behaved irresponsibly by not informing anyone about her plans

Examples of usage

He spoke recklessly without considering the impact of his words.
The hiker proceeded recklessly along the dangerous cliff.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from 'reck', which means to care or to pay attention, combined with the suffix '-less', meaning without.
Originally, 'reckless' emerged in the early 17th century, indicating a lack of concern or attention.
The term is often used in legal contexts to describe behaviors that disregard safety, such as reckless driving.

Literature

In Shakespeare's works, characters often display reckless behavior leading to tragic outcomes, emphasizing moral lessons.
Modern novels frequently explore themes of recklessness, showcasing how impulsive decisions can lead to unexpected consequences.
Many poems depict the struggle between the desire for freedom and the risks of reckless actions.

Psychology

Studies show that brain areas associated with impulse control can be less active in individuals who act recklessly.
Recklessness is often linked with thrill-seeking behavior, where individuals crave excitement without considering dangers.
People who engage in reckless behavior may experience heightened emotions, which can cloud their judgment.

Pop Culture

Movies often portray reckless characters as heroes, showing the thrill of their adventures but also the dangers they face.
Songs sometimes celebrate recklessness as a form of freedom, appealing to youthful impulsivity and desire for adventure.
Recklessness in gaming can be seen as characters take extraordinary risks for rewards, often leading to engaging and dramatic storylines.

Legal Definition

In law, recklessness refers to a person's willingness to disregard the substantial risk of harm to others, which can lead to serious consequences.
Reckless conduct can result in criminal charges, especially in cases of accidents where someone is harmed due to careless actions.
Insurance companies often evaluate behaviors deemed reckless when determining policy rates and claims.

Translations

Translations of the word "recklessly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 imprudentemente

🇮🇳 लापरवाही से

🇩🇪 rücksichtslos

🇮🇩 sembrono

🇺🇦 безрозсудно

🇵🇱 lekkomyślnie

🇯🇵 無謀に (むぼうに)

🇫🇷 imprudemment

🇪🇸 imprudentemente

🇹🇷 düşüncesizce

🇰🇷 무모하게

🇸🇦 بتهور

🇨🇿 bezohledně

🇸🇰 bezohľadne

🇨🇳 鲁莽地

🇸🇮 nepremišljeno

🇮🇸 hugsunarlaust

🇰🇿 ойланбастан

🇬🇪 გაუფრთხილებლობად

🇦🇿 düşüncəsizcə

🇲🇽 imprudentemente

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,349, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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18346 interstellar
18347 disclaimed
18348 virginity
18349 recklessly
18350 scum
18351 crested
18352 entreated
...