Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Indifferent / Unconcerned: Describes a state of not caring about consequences, opinions, rules, or societal norms. It implies a deliberate disregard or apathy.
   • Reckless / Devil-may-care: Suggests a bold, careless attitude where one acts without regard for danger, propriety, or potential outcomes.

2. Adverbial Phrase:

   • Without caring / Regardless: Used to modify a verb, indicating an action is performed with an attitude of indifference or defiance.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:

  • Anh ta có một thái độ bất cần đời. (He has a devil-may-care attitude.)
  • Cô ấy trả lời với một vẻ mặt bất cần. (She answered with an indifferent expression.)

• Adverbial Phrase:

  • Nó cứ làm bất cần hậu quả. (He just does it without caring about the consequences.)
  • Họ sống bất cần người khác nghĩ gì. (They live regardless of what others think.)

Advanced Usage

• The term often carries a nuanced tone, which can be negative (irresponsible, reckless) or slightly positive (carefree, non-conformist), depending on context.
• It is frequently used to describe a rebellious or nonchalant character trait, especially among youth.

Variants and Related Words

• Bất cần đời (adj/phrase): A common extended form meaning "not caring about life" or "devil-may-care," emphasizing a broader existential indifference.

Synonyms

• Indifferent: Having no particular interest or sympathy.
• Reckless: Without thinking or caring about the consequences of an action.
• Nonchalant: Feeling or appearing casually calm and relaxed; not displaying anxiety, interest, or enthusiasm.
• Apathetic: Showing or feeling no interest, enthusiasm, or concern.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Sống bất cần: To live carefreely/without a care.
  • Giới trẻ đôi khi muốn sống bất cần. (Young people sometimes want to live without a care.)
• Thái độ bất cần: A couldn't-care-less attitude.
  • Đừng có thái độ bất cần như vậy! (Don't have such a couldn't-care-less attitude!)

1. Don't care