# carelessly

/ˈkɛɹɫəsɫi/ (US) · /kˈeələsli/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/carelessly
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

in a way that shows you do not care about being careful or about the people and things around you.

For teachers: in a manner that lacks attention to detail or consideration for others and their safety.

## Examples

- He carelessly left his keys on the table.
- She carelessly dropped the fragile vase, which shattered into several sharp pieces on the floor.
- The manager was reprimanded for carelessly neglecting the safety protocols, which ultimately led to a minor but preventable accident in the warehouse.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.