# reckless

/ˈɹɛkɫəs/ (US) · /ɹˈɛkləs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/reckless
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. careless of danger

adjective · CEFR B2

doing something dangerous without worrying about the risks or results.

For teachers: acting or done without regard to consequences or danger; showing a lack of caution.

- The driver was arrested for reckless driving after he went through a red light.
- The company's reckless expansion into international markets without proper research led to a significant financial crisis within two years.

### 2. indifferent to consequences

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

not caring about the effect your actions have on other people.

For teachers: characterised by a lack of concern for the rights or safety of others.

- The judge said the manager showed a reckless disregard for the safety of the workers.
- The prosecution argued that the defendant acted with reckless indifference to human life, justifying a more severe charge than simple negligence.

## Examples

- He was arrested for reckless driving on the highway.
- The company faced heavy fines after a reckless decision to ignore safety warnings led to a chemical leak.
- The historian argued that the general's reckless pursuit of glory ultimately cost him the loyalty of his troops and the stability of the empire.

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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.