negligence - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
negligence Word Meanings
- Failure to take proper care
- Neglect of duty or responsibility
- Lack of attentiveness that leads to harm
negligence Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
negligence Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈnɛɡlɪdʒəns/
US
/ˈnɛɡlɪdʒəns/
negligence Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'neg-' (not) + 'ligent' (to choose, to bind); Historical origin: Latin 'negligens' → Old French 'negligence' → English; Memory image: Picture someone neglecting to water their plants, leading to their wilting—a clear consequence of negligence.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Negligence means failing to take proper care or to fulfill a duty, and it often implies a breach of the expected standard of care. It can show up in many areas, from medical mistakes and workplace safety to everyday tasks like maintaining a property or supervising a child. People may speak of negligence when harm results from an omission or careless action rather than a deliberate attempt to hurt. The word signals a legal or moral failing rather than merely an unlucky accident, and it contrasts with intentional harm and pure accident.
Usage Reminders
- - Use negligence to talk about failure to take proper care
- - Distinguish negligence from accident or deliberate harm
- - Often appears in legal or professional contexts
- - Can result from omission as well as action
- - Pair with related terms like duty of care and diligence
Common Misconceptions
- Negligence = bad luck rather than a breach of duty
- All mistakes are negligence
- Negligence always involves intent to harm
- Only lawyers use the word negligence
- Negligence cannot apply in everyday tasks
Thinking Differences
Negligence in English emphasizes a standard of care and a breach that can lead to liability; learners should note legal usage and common collocations like duty of care.
Learning Tips
- Learn the core meaning: failure to take proper care
- Differentiate negligence from accident and from intent to harm
- Note legal and professional contexts
- Recognize that omission can be negligent
- Use related terms like duty of care and diligence
- Practice with real cases or hypotheticals
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'negligence'?
A.The act of being careless or failing to take proper care
B.A form of celebration or joy
C.A legal term for real estate transactions
D.A state of extreme focus or attention
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correct usage of 'negligence' in a sentence.
A.He showed negligence by winning the game.
B.Her negligence in studying was evident during the exam.
C.They celebrated with negligence after their victory.
D.The artist painted with negligence and it turned out beautifully.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'negligence'?
A.carelessness
B.attention
C.excellence
D.happiness
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'negligence'?
A.apathy
B.indifference
C.care
D.disinterest
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'negligence' might apply?
A.A driver stops to help a pedestrian in need.
B.A student studies late into the night to prepare for an exam.
C.Someone forgot to lock the door and it led to a burglary.
D.The team worked tirelessly to complete the project on time.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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