negligence
NEG-lih-juhns
/ˈneɡ.lɪ.dʒəns/
Failure to take proper care in doing something, resulting in damage or injury to others.
Negligence is not usually about doing something bad on purpose, but about failing to do what a 'reasonable person' would have done.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'neg' (not) and 'legere' (to pick up or choose). It literally means 'not picking it up'—ignoring your responsibilities.
Word relationships
- carelessness: Carelessness is a general lack of attention; negligence is a legal failure to meet a standard of care.
- diligence: Careful and persistent work or effort.
Commonly confused with
- recklessness: Negligence is failing to be careful; recklessness is knowing the danger and doing it anyway.
Word family
- negligent (adjective): Failing to take proper care.
- negligently (adverb): In a negligent manner.
Collocations
- gross negligence
- contributory negligence
- professional negligence
- sued for negligence
Example sentences
- "The fire was caused by the negligence of a worker who left a heater on overnight in a room full of paper." Legal Case
- "The hospital was sued for medical negligence after the surgeon operated on the wrong knee." Medical Law
Memory hook
NEG-ligence is when you NEG-lect your duty. Not picking it up.
When not to use
Don't use 'negligence' for a simple, harmless mistake; it implies a failure of duty that leads to harm.
Fun facts
- In law, 'Gross Negligence' is a much more serious charge than simple negligence, implying a total lack of care for the safety of others.
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