Use reckless when the risk is serious enough that ordinary care should have stopped the action.
Use reckless when the risk is serious enough that ordinary care should have stopped the action.
| Incorrect | Correct |
| He is recklessly. | He is reckless. |
| She was reckless about a typo in the email. | She was careless about a typo in the email. |
| The jacket is reckless and colorful. | The jacket is bold and colorful. |
Use reckless in legal writing for conduct more blameworthy than ordinary negligence but short of an intentional wrong.
| Incorrect | Correct |
| The defendant acted reckless. | The defendant acted recklessly. |
| Any traffic ticket is reckless driving. | Only driving that meets the legal risk threshold is reckless driving. |
| The company made a reckless accident. | The company acted recklessly despite the known hazard. |
Use reckless for choices, conduct, or people who push past serious risk, and use the legal sense only where the law's risk threshold is meant.
Reckless is too strong for minor carelessness and must not be used as an adverb.
From Old English reccelēas, meaning careless or heedless, formed from the base of reck, to care or pay heed, plus -less.
What does reckless mean?
Reckless means taking a serious risk without enough care for danger, harm, or likely results.
Is reckless stronger than careless?
Yes. Careless can be a simple lapse, while reckless suggests a more serious disregard of risk.
Can reckless describe a person?
Yes. A person, choice, act, driver, policy, or attitude can be reckless.
What does reckless mean in law?
In law, reckless usually means consciously disregarding a substantial and unjustifiable risk.
Is reckless the same as brave?
No. Bravery can face danger wisely, while reckless action ignores danger that should matter.
What is the adverb of reckless?
The adverb is recklessly, as in The driver acted recklessly.
What is the noun form of reckless?
The noun is recklessness, meaning dangerous lack of care.
What are synonyms of reckless?
Common synonyms include rash, foolhardy, heedless, imprudent, and irresponsible.
What are antonyms of reckless?
Common antonyms include cautious, careful, and prudent.