completely irresponsible

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "completely irresponsible" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action or behavior that shows a total lack of responsibility or care. Example: "His decision to drive under the influence was completely irresponsible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He said: "It just seems bizarre and completely irresponsible that, given we have outlined the timetable that this investigation will complete by 25 October, the trade union should call a strike before that investigation is complete".

BBC

Completely irresponsible".

Independent

"It is completely irresponsible.

The Guardian

The Democrats have not been completely irresponsible.

The New York Times

His failure to insure his cargoes was completely irresponsible".

The New Yorker

"Completely irresponsible to threaten, gamble or bargain on national security.

The Washington Post

To have a player concussed a second time is completely irresponsible".

The New York Times - Sports

Hong Lei, a spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, called the survey a "completely irresponsible action".

The New York Times

A DFDS spokesman said: "What happened on the ship was completely irresponsible.

Independent

"A perpetual charitable foundation . . . is a completely irresponsible institution, answerable to nobody," he wrote.

The New Yorker

These charges are completely irresponsible and I refute them," Sharma said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "completely irresponsible", ensure the context clearly defines the specific duty or responsibility that has been neglected. This adds weight to your critique and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "completely irresponsible" in overly casual settings, as its strong negative connotation may sound overly harsh or judgmental. Consider using milder terms like "careless" or "thoughtless" in less formal situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "completely irresponsible" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun, typically an action, decision, or behavior. It serves to express strong disapproval or condemnation, emphasizing the utter lack of responsibility. Examples from Ludwig show its use in describing actions related to financial decisions, security matters, and general duties.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "completely irresponsible" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe actions or behaviors that demonstrate a total lack of responsibility. As highlighted by Ludwig, it's frequently found in news and media, as well as academic contexts, signaling its use in both formal and neutral registers. The phrase serves to express strong disapproval, and while "completely irresponsible" is considered correct, it's important to consider the tone and context to ensure the severity matches the situation. Some alternatives include "utterly reckless" or "totally careless", depending on the specific nuance desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

utterly reckless

Focuses more on the potential for harm and disregard for safety.

totally careless

Emphasizes the lack of attention and consideration.

wholly negligent

Highlights the failure to exercise reasonable care.

absolutely unconscionable

Stresses the moral reprehensibility of the action.

patently remiss

Indicates a clear and obvious failure to fulfill a duty.

deplorably lax

Emphasizes the unacceptable lack of strictness or care.

criminally negligent

Highlights the severity of the negligence, potentially leading to legal consequences.

downright imprudent

Focuses on the lack of wisdom and foresight in the action.

highly censurable

Emphasizes the deservingness of strong criticism and condemnation.

blatantly derelict

Indicates a deliberate and obvious failure to perform one's duty.

FAQs

What does "completely irresponsible" mean?

The phrase "completely irresponsible" describes behavior or actions showing a total lack of responsibility or care, often with significant negative consequences.

How to use "completely irresponsible" in a sentence?

You can say, "It was "completely irresponsible" of him to leave the children unattended", indicating a severe lack of care.

What can I say instead of "completely irresponsible"?

You can use alternatives like "utterly reckless", "totally careless", or "wholly negligent" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "completely irresponsible" or "totally irresponsible"?

Both phrases are common, but "completely irresponsible" may be perceived as slightly more formal due to the word "completely" having a slightly more formal tone than "totally".