adjective Uncommon

irrespective

ih-rih-SPEHK-tihv

Irrespective (adjective) means not taking something into account; regardless of it. Example: “Everyone gets the same bonus, irrespective of how long they have worked here.”

adjective

Not taking something into account; regardless of it.

"Everyone gets the same bonus, irrespective of how long they have worked here."

"The rule applies to all students, irrespective of age."

How to use irrespective

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAlmost always used as "irrespective of" — meaning "no matter what" or "regardless of."

Common mistake

It is almost always followed by "of." Saying just "irrespective" on its own sounds unfinished.

Common pairings

irrespective of age irrespective of the outcome irrespective of cost

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Everyone gets the same bonus, _____ of how long they have worked here.

Etymology

Formed from ir- ("not") plus respective.

Rhymes for irrespective

five give dive live olive drive alive strive derive active arrive native

See all rhymes for irrespective →

Frequently asked questions

What does “irrespective” mean?

The word “irrespective” means not taking something into account; regardless of it. In plain terms, almost always used as "irrespective of" — meaning "no matter what" or "regardless of.".

How do you pronounce “irrespective”?

“Irrespective” is pronounced ih-rih-SPEHK-tihv (/ɪɹɪˈspɛktɪv/ in IPA).

How do you use “irrespective” in a sentence?

Here is “irrespective” used in a sentence: “Everyone gets the same bonus, irrespective of how long they have worked here.”

What part of speech is “irrespective”?

“Irrespective” is an adjective.

Is “irrespective” a common word?

“Irrespective” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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Vocabulary lists that include irrespective:

12 letter words