# cavalier

/ˈkævəɫiɹ/ (US) · /kˌævɐlˈiə/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cavalier
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

showing a lack of proper concern or care. You use this to describe someone who treats serious matters as if they are not important.

For teachers: marked by a lack of proper concern; dismissive of serious matters or consequences. Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'be' or 'seem'.

## Examples

- He has a cavalier attitude toward his safety.
- The manager's cavalier dismissal of the safety concerns upset many of the factory workers.
- Such a cavalier approach to international law risks alienating long-term allies and destabilising the fragile peace that has held for decades.

## Usage notes

- Often used to modify nouns like 'attitude', 'disregard', or 'treatment'.

---

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.