C1adverb2K

Regardless

UK /["/rɪˈɡɑːdləs/"]/US /["/rɪˈɡɑːrdləs/"]/

Definition

paying no attention, even if the situation is bad or there are difficulties

In simple words: No matter what; not paying attention to something.

Examples

  • The weather was terrible but we **carried on regardless**.

Usage notes

Use 'regardless' to indicate that an action or decision is not influenced by other factors. It's often used in both spoken and written English. However, be careful not to confuse it with 'irregardless', which is nonstandard.

Grammar pattern

regardless + of + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'regard' as looking at something; 'regardless' means not looking at it.

Collocations

  • regardless of the consequences
  • regardless of the situation
  • regardless of age

Synonyms

  • irrespective
  • anyway
  • notwithstanding
  • despite
  • in spite of

Antonyms

  • considering
  • mindful
  • concerned

Common mistakes

  • 'Irregardless' is incorrect; the correct form is 'regardless'.
  • Forgetting to use it with 'of' (e.g., say 'regardless of the circumstances').
  • Using it in overly formal contexts where simpler language would suffice.