noun
B1
Intermediate
carelessness
KEH-uh-luhs-nuhs
Carelessness (noun) means a lack of proper attention or caution. Example: “The accident was caused by pure carelessness.”
noun
1
A lack of proper attention or caution.
"The accident was caused by pure carelessness."
"His carelessness with client data led to a data breach."
How to use carelessness
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe quality of not paying enough attention, often leading to mistakes.
Common pairings
sheer carelessness
a moment of carelessness
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Word forms
- Plural
- carelessnesses
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The accident was caused by pure _____.
Etymology
From careless + -ness.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for carelessness
lawlessness
selflessness
homelessness
restlessness
recklessness
helplessness
hopelessness
ruthlessness
weightlessness
See all rhymes for carelessness →
Frequently asked questions
What does “carelessness” mean?
The word “carelessness” means a lack of proper attention or caution. In plain terms, the quality of not paying enough attention, often leading to mistakes.
How do you pronounce “carelessness”?
“Carelessness” is pronounced KEH-uh-luhs-nuhs (/ˈkɛɹləsnəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “carelessness” in a sentence?
Here is “carelessness” used in a sentence: “The accident was caused by pure carelessness.”
What is the opposite of “carelessness”?
The opposite of “carelessness” — its antonyms — is carefulness.
What part of speech is “carelessness”?
“Carelessness” is a noun.
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