Recklessness: meaning, definitions and examples

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recklessness

[ˈrɛkləsnəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

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. His recklessness behind the wheel almost caused an accident. The company's financial recklessness led to its collapse.
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. Her carelessness resulted in a broken vase. He lost his job due to his carelessness with important documents.
heedlessness	Heedlessness is used to describe someone's lack of attention or consideration for warnings or advice. It often implies a willful ignorance. His heedlessness to safety protocols put the entire team at risk. Her heedlessness of the doctor's orders prolonged her illness.
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. His rashness in making investment decisions cost him a lot of money. She admitted her rashness in reacting to the situation without fully understanding it.

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.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

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. His recklessness behind the wheel put everyone in danger. The company's recklessness with environmental regulations resulted in a hefty fine.
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. Her carelessness led to a mistake in the report. I lost my keys due to my carelessness.
heedlessness	When someone is intentionally ignoring warnings or advice. It implies more deliberateness than carelessness but less extreme than recklessness and is often negative. His heedlessness of the weather warnings led to a dangerous hike. The captain's heedlessness resulted in the ship running aground.
rashness	When someone makes a hasty decision without thoroughly thinking it through. It suggests a quick but potentially regrettable action. She regretted her rashness in quitting her job without another one lined up. His rashness often got him into trouble with impulsive purchases.

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.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

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. His recklessness on the road put everyone's lives in danger. The company's financial recklessness led to its downfall.
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. His daredevilry on the motorbike amazed everyone, but it was very dangerous. She is known for her daredevilry and loves performing stunts.
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. She had the audacity to question the manager's decision in front of everyone. His audacity in challenging the status quo earned him a lot of respect.
boldness	Boldness refers to the willingness to take risks and act confidently. It is generally seen in a more positive light compared to recklessness. Her boldness in presenting innovative ideas impressed the committee. The general's boldness on the battlefield turned the tide of the war.

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.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

People often act recklessly when they feel stressed, leading to poor decision-making.
Research suggests that younger individuals may display more recklessness due to their developing brains, especially in areas responsible for impulse control.
Recklessness can sometimes be linked to thrill-seeking behavior, where individuals seek excitement without considering the risks.

Literature

Many classic heroes, like those in Shakespeare's tragedies, often display recklessness, leading to their downfall.
In modern novels, characters exhibiting recklessness often highlight themes of personal growth or consequences.

Law

In legal terms, recklessness refers to a person's disregard for the safety and rights of others, which can lead to criminal charges.
Driving under the influence is often classified as reckless behavior, as it endangers the driver and others on the road.
Insurance companies may categorize certain actions as reckless, affecting claims and coverage.

Pop Culture

Many action films celebrate reckless heroes whose daring actions lead to thrilling, but often dangerous, situations.
Social media influencers may engage in reckless stunts for views, illustrating the societal attraction to risk-taking.
Popular songs often depict themes of living life recklessly, capturing the allure and consequences of carefree living.

History

Historical figures like Napoleon Bonaparte exhibited recklessness in military strategies, sometimes leading to significant victories or defeats.
The reckless exploration during the Age of Discovery led to both the expansion of knowledge and the exploitation of native populations.
Economic recklessness seen during the 2008 financial crisis demonstrates how poor decision-making can have widespread repercussions.

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

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
...