negligence

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun failure to act with the prudence that a reasonable person would exercise under the same circumstances
noun the trait of neglecting responsibilities and lacking concern

From Middle English necligence, negligence, from Old French negligence, from Latin neglegentia.

Such high-bred negligence and unconsciousness. — The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today, Mark Twain
Such an instance of negligence almost surpassed belief. — The Mysteries of Udolpho, Ann Ward Radcliffe
He concludes with the injunction: "Tremblingly obey and show no negligence!" — The Problem of China, Bertrand Russell

carelessness, neglect, nonperformance

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