remiss - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
remiss Word Meanings
- negligent or careless
- lacking in attention or responsibility
- not fulfilling a duty or task
remiss Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
remiss Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈmɪs/
US
/rɪˈmɪs/
remiss Word Etymology
Re- = again + miss = send away. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine someone remanding a letter back because it was poorly addressed, symbolizing procrastination and carelessness.
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
Remiss describes a failure to attend to duties due to negligence or carelessness. In everyday English it often modifies nouns like behavior, conduct, or reporting, as in a remiss supervisor or remiss duties. It carries a tone of moral or professional failing rather than a simple lapse; it implies clear responsibility was neglected. It contrasts with diligent, conscientious, or thorough, and it usually implies a pattern rather than a one-off slip, though it can appear after a single oversight. People may say someone has been remiss in their duties, in reporting, or in following safety protocols, leading to avoidable problems.
Usage Reminders
- Be careful not to confuse remiss with negligent feelings; remiss highlights failure to fulfill duties.
- Often followed by in + noun (remiss in duties).
- Common in formal criticism or performance reviews.
- Not the same as a temporary lapse without responsibility.
- Pair with antonyms like diligent, thorough, and conscientious.
Common Misconceptions
- Remiss is not the same as merely forgetting something once.
- It implies a failure to uphold responsibilities rather than a minor slip.
- It can apply to people, processes, or reports, not just actions.
- It often carries a formal or critical tone.
- Antonyms include diligent, conscientious, thorough.
Thinking Differences
Remiss flags a formal judgment about responsibility; English often uses it to critique an ongoing neglect, not a one-off mistake, which learners sometimes equate with a simple error.
Learning Tips
- 1) Learn remiss with in + noun (remiss in duties).
- 2) Contrast with diligent and thorough to see nuance.
- 3) Use in formal contexts like performance reviews.
- 4) Watch for patterns of neglect rather than a single slip.
- 5) Practice by rewriting sentences to show improvement rather than fault.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'remiss' used correctly?
A.He was always punctual and never remiss.
B.She was always remiss in her work.
C.The students were kind and never remiss.
D.He was very loud and never remiss.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'remiss'?
A.Negligent
B.Conscientious
C.Diligent
D.Attentive
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'remiss'?
A.Careful
B.Meticulous
C.Dutiful
D.Vigilant
Step 5: Mastery
How would being 'remiss' in your duties affect your reputation at work?
A.It would make you a valuable employee.
B.It would lead to promotions.
C.It would harm your professional image.
D.It would earn you praise from your colleagues.
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