Recklessness: meaning, definitions and examples
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recklessness
[ ˈrɛkləsnəs ]
behavior
Lack of caution or care; irresponsibility.
Synonyms
carelessness, heedlessness, rashness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
recklessness |
This word is often used when someone takes actions without thinking about the risk or potential negative consequences. It implies a higher level of danger or irresponsibility.
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carelessness |
This term is used in situations where someone fails to give enough attention or thought to avoid making mistakes or causing harm. It generally refers to neglect rather than intent.
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heedlessness |
Heedlessness is used to describe someone's lack of attention or consideration for warnings or advice. It often implies a willful ignorance.
|
rashness |
This word describes actions that are taken hastily without careful thought, often leading to regret or negative outcomes. It is usually associated with impulsiveness.
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Examples of usage
- He drove with such recklessness that he caused a serious accident.
- Her recklessness in handling delicate equipment led to costly damage.
- The company suffered financial losses due to the recklessness of its management.
legal
The state or quality of being reckless; disregard for the consequences of one's actions.
Synonyms
carelessness, heedlessness, rashness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
recklessness |
When someone acts without considering the dangers or consequences. It often implies a high level of danger and usually has a negative connotation.
|
carelessness |
When someone is not paying enough attention to detail or is neglecting responsibilities. It is usually less severe than recklessness but still implies a lack of concern or attention.
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heedlessness |
When someone is intentionally ignoring warnings or advice. It implies more deliberateness than carelessness but less extreme than recklessness and is often negative.
|
rashness |
When someone makes a hasty decision without thoroughly thinking it through. It suggests a quick but potentially regrettable action.
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Examples of usage
- The defendant's recklessness in driving under the influence of alcohol resulted in a fatal crash.
- The law holds individuals accountable for any harm caused by their recklessness.
extreme sports
The willingness to take risks and engage in adventurous activities without concern for personal safety.
Synonyms
audacity, boldness, daredevilry.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
recklessness |
Recklessness is often used when someone is acting without regard for the consequences, typically in a negative manner. It suggests a lack of caution and responsibility.
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daredevilry |
Daredevilry is used to describe actions that are extremely risky or adventurous. It often implies a sense of thrill-seeking and can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
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audacity |
Audacity is used to describe bold or daring behavior that can be shocking or disrespectful. It can have both positive and negative connotations depending on the context.
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boldness |
Boldness refers to the willingness to take risks and act confidently. It is generally seen in a more positive light compared to recklessness.
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Examples of usage
- His recklessness in extreme sports earned him a reputation as a fearless thrill-seeker.
- The adrenaline junkie's recklessness in base jumping made headlines.
Translations
Translations of the word "recklessness" in other languages:
🇵🇹 imprudência
🇮🇳 लापरवाही
🇩🇪 Rücksichtslosigkeit
🇮🇩 kecerobohan
🇺🇦 безрозсудність
🇵🇱 lekkomyślność
🇯🇵 無謀
🇫🇷 imprudence
🇪🇸 imprudencia
🇹🇷 dikkatsizlik
🇰🇷 무모함
🇸🇦 طيش
🇨🇿 lehkomyslnost
🇸🇰 ľahkomyseľnosť
🇨🇳 鲁莽
🇸🇮 nepremišljenost
🇮🇸 hugsunarleysi
🇰🇿 абайсыздық
🇬🇪 უპასუხისმგებლობა
🇦🇿 ehtiyatsızlıq
🇲🇽 imprudencia
Etymology
The word 'recklessness' originated from the Middle English word 'reckelees', which meant 'careless' or 'heedless'. It has been used in the English language since the 15th century. The concept of recklessness has been explored in various fields, from psychology to law, highlighting the importance of caution and responsibility in decision-making.
See also: recklessly.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #19,341, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
- ...
- 19338 postponing
- 19339 overworked
- 19340 quieted
- 19341 recklessness
- 19342 polysaccharide
- 19343 shackles
- 19344 decadent
- ...