imprudence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "imprudence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lack of caution or care in decision-making or behavior. Example: "His imprudence in investing all his savings in a single venture led to significant financial loss."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mr Brown's imprudence has left his chancellor, Alistair Darling, with little scope to provide a fiscal boost.That leaves monetary policy.

The Economist

The voters are not the only people who will have to pay for his imprudence.

The Economist

For instance, EDF showed "real and surprising imprudence", according to the report, when it gained control of Edenor, an Argentine electricity company, in 2001.

The Economist

If that meant Northern Rock's owners lost everything, it would be a fitting punishment for the bank's imprudence.

The Economist

These goals are often incompatible.In this section The perils of imprudence The politics of retreat A royal mess Contaminated ground Soft-touch regulation Two weeks on the ocean wave Top marks On optimism ReprintsIt has been, in fact, a terrible year for British television in general.

The Economist

Gaining one for peppery imprudence took only a few hours.

The Economist

From education to health care for poor Americans, the states expanded programmes and broadened eligibility, even while they introduced big tax cuts.The states' imprudence, however, does not explain all the current mess.

The Economist

Almost all the increase in 2004 went to Chelsea players.A second reason is the salutary example of the consequences of imprudence presented by Leeds United.

The Economist

The pensions bill, on its way through Parliament, has been amended to provide £400m to those short-changed by insolvent employers' imprudence with their funds.That sum will not make good their losses.

The Economist

But he is hemmed in by both his past imprudence as chancellor of the exchequer and the adverse impact of slowing growth on the public finances.To add to his difficulties, the rise in inflation will make it still harder to afford budgetary sweeteners, such as the extra help with winter-fuel bills which the government is apparently contemplating.

The Economist

But his imprudence has left the Treasury with little leeway to bolster a weakening economy.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing decisions or actions, use "imprudence" to specifically highlight a lack of careful consideration of the potential negative consequences.

Common error

Avoid using "imprudence" when describing simple errors or oversights. "Imprudence" implies a deliberate disregard for caution, not just an accidental slip-up.

Linguistic Context

The word "imprudence" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a quality or state of lacking caution or good judgment. Ludwig AI examples demonstrate its use to describe financial missteps, political decisions, and personal behavior. It is the lack of prudence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "imprudence" is a noun that denotes a lack of caution, discretion, or good judgment. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and frequently used, especially in News & Media. It carries a neutral tone and serves to critique decisions or actions that display a lack of foresight. When using "imprudence", ensure it accurately reflects a deliberate disregard for potential consequences, differentiating it from simple mistakes or carelessness. Consider alternatives like "rashness" or "lack of foresight" to fine-tune the meaning based on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rashness

Emphasizes acting without thinking, often quickly and impulsively.

recklessness

Emphasizes disregard for danger or consequences.

carelessness

Highlights a lack of attention or diligence, resulting in mistakes or harm.

indiscretion

Focuses on a lack of tact or good judgment, especially in speech or behavior.

lack of caution

Highlights the absence of carefulness and wariness.

unwisdom

Directly points to a lack of wisdom or sound judgment.

folly

Suggests foolishness or lack of good sense.

foolhardiness

Suggests boldness to the point of being foolish and risky.

shortsightedness

Focuses on a failure to consider long-term effects or implications.

lack of foresight

Focuses on the absence of planning or anticipation of consequences.

FAQs

How can I use "imprudence" in a sentence?

You can use "imprudence" to describe a lack of wisdom or caution in someone's actions. For example, "His "imprudence" led to significant financial losses".

What's the difference between "imprudence" and "carelessness"?

"Imprudence" suggests a deliberate lack of caution and a disregard for consequences, while "carelessness" implies a lack of attention or diligence, often unintentional.

What are some synonyms for "imprudence"?

Some synonyms for "imprudence" include "rashness", "indiscretion", "folly", and "recklessness". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "imprudence" a formal or informal word?

"Imprudence" is generally considered a formal word, suitable for academic, professional, and news contexts. In casual conversation, simpler words like "foolishness" or "carelessness" might be more appropriate.