Definition

1. Noun:
   • The trait of neglecting responsibilities and lacking concern: A state or quality of being careless, inattentive, or indifferent, especially regarding duties or obligations.
   • Failure to act with the prudence that a reasonable person would exercise under the same circumstances: In law, this refers to a breach of a duty of care, where one's actions or inactions fall below the standard of behavior expected of a reasonably prudent person, potentially causing harm or damage.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The accident was a result of the driver's negligence. (The driver's carelessness caused the accident.)
  • The company was sued for negligence in maintaining its equipment. (The company faced a lawsuit for failing to maintain its equipment properly.)
  • His negligence in his studies led to poor grades. (His lack of attention to his studies resulted in poor academic performance.)

Advanced Usage

• "Gross negligence": An extreme and reckless disregard for the safety or rights of others, often more severe than ordinary negligence.
  • The court found the surgeon guilty of gross negligence.
• "Contributory negligence": In law, a principle where a plaintiff's own negligence contributed to the harm they suffered, which may reduce or bar their ability to recover damages.
  • The claim was dismissed due to the plaintiff's contributory negligence.
• "Criminal negligence": Conduct that is such a departure from the standard of care that it constitutes a crime.
  • He was charged with criminal negligence causing death.

Variants and Related Words

• Negligent (adj): Characterized by or showing neglect; careless.
  • The negligent employee was reprimanded.
• Negligently (adv): In a negligent manner.
  • He acted negligently by ignoring the safety warnings.

Synonyms

• Carelessness: Lack of attention or consideration.
• Dereliction: Willful neglect of one's duty.
• Inattention: Failure to pay attention.
• Remissness: Negligence or carelessness in performing a duty.

Antonyms

• Diligence: Careful and persistent work or effort.
• Attentiveness: Paying close attention.
• Prudence: Acting with or showing care for the future.
• Carefulness: The quality of giving a lot of attention to what you are doing.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "Negligence per se": A legal doctrine where an act is considered negligent because it violates a statute or regulation.
  • Violating the building code was negligence per se.
• "Willful negligence": Intentional failure to perform a duty or reckless disregard of the consequences.
  • The manager's willful negligence endangered the entire staff.

Noun

1. the trait of neglecting responsibilities and lacking concern
2. failure to act with the prudence that a reasonable person would exercise under the same circumstances