regardless
/ri'gɑ:dlis/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adverb:
- In spite of everything; without allowing difficulties or opposition to have an effect: Used to indicate that an action continues or a situation exists despite problems or warnings.
- Adjective (archaic):
- Heedless, unmindful, or careless: Showing a lack of concern or attention. This usage is now rare.
Usage
- As an Adverb: Most commonly used to modify a verb, showing that an action proceeds despite obstacles. It is often used at the end of a clause.
- The weather was terrible, but the match went ahead regardless.
- I warned him it was a bad idea, but he did it regardless.
- In the Phrase "regardless of": This is the most frequent construction. It functions as a preposition meaning "without consideration for" or "paying no attention to."
- The event is open to all, regardless of age or background.
- He invested all his money, regardless of the risk.
Examples
- Adverb:
- It was an expensive repair, but the car was a classic, so we fixed it regardless.
- She knew the path was dangerous, but she walked on regardless.
- With "regardless of":
- The law applies to everyone, regardless of their position.
- They promised to finish the project on time, regardless of the cost.
Advanced Usage
- "Regardless" as a sentence adverb: It can be used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or dismisses a previous point.
- Some people thought it was too ambitious a plan. Regardless, we decided to proceed.
- Emphatic use: Often used for emphasis to show determination or indifference to circumstances.
- I will achieve my goal, regardless.
Variants and Related Words
- Regardlessness (noun, rare): The state or quality of being regardless.
- Regardlessly (adverb, rare): In a regardless manner.
Synonyms
- Adverb: Nevertheless, anyway, anyhow, nonetheless, in any case, despite that.
- Prepositional phrase ("regardless of"): Irrespective of, heedless of, unmindful of, indifferent to, paying no attention to.
Related Phrases
- "Regardless of the fact that": A more formal way to introduce a clause that states an opposing fact.
- He was hired, regardless of the fact that he lacked formal qualifications.
Notes on Usage
- The adjectival use (e.g., "a regardless person") is now considered archaic and is rarely used in modern English.
- In informal speech, "irregardless" is sometimes used as a nonstandard synonym for "regardless." It is widely considered incorrect in formal writing and speech.
Adjective
- (usually followed by `of') without due thought or consideration
- careless of the consequences
- crushing the blooms with regardless tread
Adverb
- in spite of everything; without regard to drawbacks
- he carried on regardless of the difficulties