reckless indifference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reckless indifference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in legal contexts or discussions about behavior that shows a lack of concern for the consequences of one's actions. Example: "The defendant's reckless indifference to the safety of others was evident in the way he drove at high speeds through the crowded streets."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Dorothy Bain QC accused him of showing "reckless indifference" by not disclosing earlier fainting episodes.

Independent

"It was callous, reckless indifference, a depraved heart," he said of the killing.

The Guardian

For punitive damages, they had to find that Duke acted with malice and reckless indifference.

The New York Times - Sports

He said the case would come down to proving "reckless indifference and greed".

The Guardian

The residents of Salisbury were not so lucky and no government can tolerate such reckless indifference to the wellbeing of its citizens.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Obeids contended the parties knowingly or recklessly exceeded their powers with knowledge or reckless indifference as to the damage it would cause the Obeids.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

I think it's the most reckless, unpatriotic indifference to a source of American pride that I can imagine".

The New York Times

We put aside also the problem that would arise if there had been reckless and wanton indifference to consequences measured and foreseen.

Harvard University

Judge Walker refused to grant punitive damages based on the claim that the wiretapping under the National Security Agency program showed "reckless or callous indifference" to the plaintiffs' rights.

The New York Times

Every Circuit to consider the question has held that punitive damages are "appropriate relief" when a union's conduct manifests "actual malice or reckless or wanton indifference" to members' speech and associational rights.

Cornell University

In 2003, a woman sued a waste-management company for more than $10m after her brother was suffocated in this way in Portland, Oregon, alleging "reckless and outrageous indifference" to homeless lives.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "reckless indifference" to describe actions or policies, not general states of mind. Focus on observable behavior rather than speculative intent.

Common error

Avoid using "reckless indifference" when the situation involves ignorance or lack of awareness, rather than a conscious disregard for known risks. Ensure there's a demonstrable element of choosing to ignore potential harm.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reckless indifference" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used to describe a state of mind or a type of behavior characterized by a disregard for the potential consequences of one's actions. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Academia

22%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reckless indifference" is a grammatically correct noun phrase frequently employed to denote a state of mind or behavior characterized by disregard for potential consequences. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is usable in written English, particularly in legal and ethical discussions. It frequently appears in News & Media and Academic contexts. While synonyms like "callous disregard" and "gross negligence" exist, "reckless indifference" carries a specific implication of conscious disregard for known risks. Ensure the context supports this meaning to avoid misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

callous disregard

Emphasizes the emotional insensitivity and lack of empathy.

wanton disregard

Highlights the unjustified and excessive nature of the indifference.

heedless disregard

Emphasizes the lack of attention or awareness of the potential consequences.

gross negligence

Focuses on the extreme lack of care and competence.

flagrant disregard

Highlights the blatant and obvious nature of the disregard.

criminal negligence

Suggests a level of negligence that could lead to criminal charges.

depraved indifference

Indicates a moral corruption and disregard for human life.

willful negligence

Highlights the intentional or deliberate nature of the negligence.

deliberate apathy

Highlights the conscious and intentional nature of the indifference.

unconscionable neglect

Emphasizes the shocking and unacceptable nature of the neglect.

FAQs

How is "reckless indifference" used in legal contexts?

In legal settings, "reckless indifference" often describes a state of mind where a person is aware of a substantial and unjustifiable risk but consciously disregards it. This can lead to charges like reckless endangerment or even murder under certain circumstances.

What are some synonyms for "reckless indifference"?

Alternatives to "reckless indifference" include "callous disregard", "gross negligence", or "wanton disregard", each emphasizing slightly different aspects of the disregard or negligence involved.

What's the difference between "negligence" and "reckless indifference"?

"Negligence" implies a failure to exercise reasonable care, while "reckless indifference" suggests a conscious disregard of a known risk. "Reckless indifference" involves a higher degree of culpability because it demonstrates an awareness of the potential harm.

Can "reckless indifference" lead to criminal charges?

Yes, "reckless indifference" can be a basis for criminal charges, especially when it results in harm or death. Depending on the jurisdiction and circumstances, charges could range from reckless endangerment to manslaughter or even murder, particularly when the act demonstrates "depraved indifference".