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Negligence - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Negligence is the failure to take proper care in doing something, resulting in harm or damage. It often implies a lack of attention or disregard for responsibilities.

negligence

/ˈnɛɡlɪdʒəns/ /ˈnɛɡlɪdʒəns/

Definition:

Failure to take proper care, resulting in harm or damage.

Synonyms:

carelessness, neglect, inattention, dereliction

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

diligence, attentiveness

Common Collocations:

gross negligence, medical negligence, professional negligence, criminal negligence

Derivatives:

negligent, negligently

Usage Tips:

Use "negligence" to describe avoidable failure in duty or care, often legal or professional contexts.

Common Phrases:

contributory negligence, willful negligence, negligence claim

Etymology:

From Latin *negligentia*, meaning "carelessness," from *negligere* ("to neglect").

Examples:

  • 1. The doctor was sued for negligence after the wrong diagnosis.
  • 2. Her negligence caused the car accident by ignoring traffic signals.
  • 3. The company faced fines for environmental negligence.
  • 4. The lawyer proved the landlord’s negligence in maintaining the property.

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