Cool MateIgnore a text like that vs Neglect
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Ignore a text like that
InformalTop 2,000 (common)
Neglect
Top 3,000 (common)C1verb
Most formal: NeglectMost common: Ignore a text like that
| Ignore a text like that | Neglect | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //ɪɡˈnɔːr ə tɛkst laɪk ðæt//🇺🇸 //ɪɡˈnɔr ə tɛkst laɪk ðæt// | 🇬🇧 //nɪˈɡlɛkt//🇺🇸 //nɪˈɡlɛkt// |
| Meaning | Not pay attention to a message like that. | To not pay attention to something or someone. |
| Example | I decided to ignore a text like that because it was rude. | He tends to neglect his health due to his busy schedule. |
| Register | Informal | Neutral |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 3,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | - | C1 |
| Part of speech | verb | |
| Collocations | ignore a text, ignore a message, ignore someone's call, ignore the news, ignore advice | neglect responsibilities, neglect duties, neglect health, neglect a cause |
| Antonyms | - | care, attend, nurture |
| Common mistakes | Omitting 'a' before 'text', Confusing with 'neglect' which implies more intention, Using 'ignored' incorrectly in past tense when discussing ongoing behavior | Confused with 'neglected' as past tense only., Used without an object, neglect must involve something specific., Misuse as a synonym for 'ignore' without understanding the depth. |
| Usage notes | Used in casual conversations, often when dismissing something that seems unimportant or inappropriate. Avoid in formal communication. | Used in formal and informal contexts; avoid in casual conversation unless discussing serious issues. It's appropriate for discussing responsibilities, care, or attention. |
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Frequently asked questions: Ignore a text like that vs Neglect
What's the difference between Ignore a text like that and Neglect?
Ignore a text like that: Not pay attention to a message like that. Neglect: To not pay attention to something or someone.
Which is more formal: Ignore a text like that and Neglect?
Neglect is the most formal of these.
Which is more common: Ignore a text like that and Neglect?
Ignore a text like that is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Ignore a text like that: I decided to ignore a text like that because it was rude. Neglect: He tends to neglect his health due to his busy schedule.
Can I use Ignore a text like that and Neglect interchangeably?
Not always. Ignore a text like that and Neglect are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.