negligent

What does “negligent” mean?

adjective.failing to take proper care in doing something.

SAT Usage

this term often appears in passages related to legal responsibility, safety, or personal accountability. It emphasizes a lack of care or attention that can lead to negative consequences, distinguishing it from similar words like "careless," which can imply a more general lack of focus rather than a failure to fulfill obligations or duties.

Common Confusions

Negligent implies a failure to fulfill specific duties or responsibilities, while careless usually suggests a more general lack of attention or focus without the implication of legal or moral obligations.

Example Sentences

• The landlord was negligent in maintaining fire safety standards.

• The homeowner was found negligent after ignoring multiple warnings about the unstable roof, which ultimately collapsed during a heavy storm, causing significant damage.

Related Words