B1adjective2K

Careless

UK /["/ˈkeələs/"]/US /["/ˈkerləs/"]/

Definition

not giving enough attention and thought to what you are doing, so that you make mistakes

In simple words: Not paying attention or being careful.

Examples

  • His careless attitude towards his studies has resulted in poor grades.
  • She drove in a careless manner, which worried other drivers on the road.
  • The careless mistake in the report could have serious consequences.
  • Careless handling of fragile items can lead to breakage.
  • He made a careless comment that offended his friend.

Usage notes

Use 'careless' to describe actions that show a lack of attention. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, but avoid using it in very sensitive discussions as it may sound harsh.

Grammar pattern

careless + about + object

Memory hint

Think of 'care-less' — imagine a person who cares less about their work.

Collocations

  • be
  • become
  • get
  • extremely
  • rather
  • very
  • about
  • of
  • with
  • be
  • become
  • get
  • extremely
  • rather
  • very
  • about
  • of
  • with
  • be
  • become
  • get
  • extremely
  • rather
  • very
  • about
  • of
  • with

Synonyms

  • negligent
  • reckless
  • inattentive
  • sloppy
  • hasty

Antonyms

  • careful
  • cautious
  • attentive

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'carefree', which means not worrying.
  • Using it to describe people instead of actions.
  • Misplacing the stress in pronunciation.