# headlong

/ˈhɛdˌɫɔŋ/ (US) · /hˈɛdlɒŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/headlong
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

happening very quickly and without thinking about the possible dangers. You use this to describe a rush into something that might be risky.

For teachers: characterised by a lack of caution or foresight; proceeding rapidly and recklessly. Often used to describe a plunge into a dangerous or difficult situation.

## Examples

- The company made a headlong rush into the new market.
- The young couple made a headlong plunge into marriage without considering the financial challenges they would face.
- The government's headlong pursuit of rapid industrialisation led to significant environmental degradation that would take decades to reverse.

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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.