rash
12 synonyms and 5 antonyms for rash, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Acting too quickly without thinking through the consequences.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. adj
Acting too quickly without thinking through the consequences.
“Quitting your job without a backup plan was a rash decision.”
Opposites
2. noun
An area of irritated, reddened skin, sometimes with bumps or blisters.
“The soap gave her a rash on her arms.”
How to use rash
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
a rash decision
a rash of complaints
break out in a rash
skin rash
Etymology
Possibly from Old English *ræsc, related to words meaning "to move quickly or flash" — connected to the idea of acting suddenly.
Full origin of rash →Frequently asked questions
What does “rash” mean?
The word “rash” means acting too quickly without thinking through the consequences. In plain terms, hasty and unthinking, a skin irritation, or a sudden burst of similar events.
How do you pronounce “rash”?
“Rash” is pronounced rash (/ɹæʃ/ in IPA).
How do you use “rash” in a sentence?
Here is “rash” used in a sentence: “Quitting your job without a backup plan was a rash decision.”
What part of speech is “rash”?
Depending on how it is used, “rash” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “rash” come from?
The word “rash” comes from Old English. Possibly from Old English *ræsc, related to words meaning "to move quickly or flash" — connected to the idea of acting suddenly.
Is “rash” a common word?
“Rash” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “rash” have?
“Rash” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: acting too quickly without thinking through the consequences.
What is the difference between rash and reckless?
Rash describes acting too quickly without thinking through the consequences, often referring to a single hasty decision. Reckless implies a broader disregard for danger across a pattern of behavior rather than one impulsive moment.
What is the difference between a skin rash and a rash of events?
A skin rash is an area of irritated, reddened skin, sometimes with bumps or blisters, caused by irritation, allergy, or illness. A "rash of events" is a figurative use describing a sudden series of similar, usually unwelcome occurrences, unrelated to skin.
