Definitions

carelessness

[kair-lis-nis] / ˈkɛər lɪs nɪs /

NOUN

unconcern

Synonyms

STRONGEST

inattention neglect negligence nonchalance sloppiness

STRONG

disregard haphazardness heedlessness neglectfulness rashness

Antonyms

WEAK

care consideration caution

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It is with such acts of carelessness that leaders lose their credibility and empires lose their power.

From Slate • Jun. 1, 2026

Such cases get attention and send a message that carelessness with firearms is serious business.

From Salon • May 22, 2026

“All the mighty, anarchic carelessness of our country was revealed in Borger,” Benton observed.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

It was a dismissal that encapsulated the carelessness that so often costs this England team.

From BBC • Jan. 5, 2026

“I only seek some wisdom for when I shall be married,” I said, affecting carelessness.

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein