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

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 notes

In plain EnglishThe quality of not paying enough attention, often leading to mistakes.

Common pairings

sheer carelessness a moment of carelessness

Word forms

carelessnesses plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The accident was caused by pure _____.

Etymology

From careless + -ness.

Synonyms

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neglect negligence sloppiness nonperformance

Antonyms

carefulness

Related words

care miss attention respect forget notice regard ignore

Rhymes for carelessness

lawlessness selflessness homelessness restlessness recklessness helplessness hopelessness ruthlessness weightlessness

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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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