Thoughtlessness: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is acting without thinking about the consequences, typically in a way that can be seen as inconsiderate or unkind.

• His thoughtlessness hurt her feelings deeply
• Her thoughtlessness led to a lot of mistakes at work

Refers to a lack of attention or consideration, often resulting in mistakes or accidents. It implies negligence but not necessarily a deliberate disregard for rules or safety.

• Her carelessness caused the vase to break
• You should double-check your work to avoid carelessness

Emphasizes the absence of attention or concern for warning or advice. It suggests ignoring potential risks or dangers.

• His heedlessness of safety protocols put everyone at risk
• Due to his heedlessness, he missed several important details

Describes behavior that shows a disregard for the dangerous consequences of one's actions. It often implies a higher degree of danger and a more conscious decision to ignore risks.

• His recklessness on the road could lead to serious accidents
• Engaging in such recklessness is extremely irresponsible

Refers to a lack of consideration or attention, often unintentional, when someone does not think about the effects of their actions on others.

• His thoughtlessness caused him to forget his friend's birthday.
• Driving through a puddle and splashing pedestrians showed her thoughtlessness.

Indicates a lack of empathy or awareness of others' feelings, often leading to hurtful or offensive comments or actions.

• Her insensitivity to her friend's grief showed when she made a joke about it.
• He demonstrated insensitivity by not acknowledging the team's hard work.

Describes actions that are explicitly discourteous or disrespectful, often causing deep offense or annoyance.

• Shouting at the waiter was an act of rudeness.
• Slamming the door in someone's face is a clear example of rudeness.

Used to describe inappropriate behavior that does not follow social etiquette, but doesn't always have a deep negative emotional impact.

• Interrupting someone while they are speaking is an example of impoliteness.
• Eating loudly at the dinner table can be seen as impoliteness.