ENGLISH
REFERENCE

regardless

adv. · adj.
US //ɹəˈɡɑɹdɫəs// UK //ɹɪɡˈɑːdləs// re·gard·less
  1. 1 anyway (adv.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    despite everything; you use this to say that something happens even if there are difficulties.

    despite prevailing circumstances or opposition; functions as a sentence adverb to indicate persistence.

    Example

    The weather was terrible, but we decided to go for a walk regardless.

    Example

    The board recognized the financial risks involved but voted to proceed with the merger regardless, citing long-term strategic benefits.

    Usage

    Often placed at the end of a sentence or clause to mean 'in spite of everything'.

    Pitfall
    He decided to go irregardless of the rain.
    He decided to go regardless of the rain.

    The word 'irregardless' is considered incorrect in formal writing; always use 'regardless'.

  2. 2 ignoring something (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    not paying attention to something or not caring about it.

    heedless or unmindful of consequences or surroundings; often used in a postpositive position.

    Example

    He continued his speech, regardless of the angry shouts from the crowd.

    Example

    The explorer pushed deeper into the jungle, seemingly regardless of the physical exhaustion that had sidelined the rest of his team.

    Usage

    Commonly followed by the preposition 'of' to form a prepositional phrase.

Origin

From regard + -less.

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