utter carelessness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utter carelessness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a complete lack of attention or concern in a particular situation. Example: "The accident was a result of utter carelessness on the part of the driver."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The critic Benjamin Anastas said in The New York Observer that he found the book "a brain-bending mixture of inventive talent and utter carelessness".

The New York Times - Books

The Liberal Democrat home affairs spokesman, Chris Huhne, said: "This suggests that procedures on such sensitive matters are lax to the point of utter carelessness".

The Guardian

noted that they "proved their spunk by the utter carelessness with which they received the enemy's shot"–they were much valued by elite generals like Robert E. Lee and Zachary Taylor, both of whom relied on troops led by Rangers in American campaigns along the Texas-Mexico border.

Forbes

"The utter carelessness," he said.

Huffington Post

So Hillary's worst nightmare isn't winning the nomination, or even avoiding indictment for utter carelessness in opting for a private server to handle what she must have known to be confidential emails that could turn top-secret with a change in world events.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

"This was pure carelessness.

The New York Times

* Lawsuit alleges gross negligence, carelessness.

Huffington Post

As his vocal foil, Mr. Dowd employs Kim Sherwood-Caso, a female singer whose utter lack of affect suggests innocence (soon to be corrupted), eroticism (soon to be exploited) and general carelessness (soon to be regretted).

The New York Times - Arts

for carelessness.

The New Yorker

Dylan: Carelessness.

The New Yorker

"Captain America: utter, utter, utter tosh".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing serious consequences stemming from a lack of attention, use "utter carelessness" to underscore the severity of the lapse.

Common error

While "utter carelessness" effectively conveys strong disapproval, consider using less formal alternatives like "plain carelessness" or "simple carelessness" in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utter carelessness" functions as a noun phrase, where "utter" modifies the noun "carelessness". As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and typically describes a significant lack of attention or concern. Examples in Ludwig show it used to express disapproval or highlight the severity of a situation.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utter carelessness" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English that expresses a complete lack of attention or concern. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While relatively rare in occurrence, it is most frequently found in News & Media contexts. Alternatives include "complete negligence" and "sheer recklessness", each carrying slightly different nuances. The phrase is generally suitable for neutral to formal registers and is used to convey strong criticism, making it most appropriate for situations where a severe lack of attention has significant consequences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gross negligence

A legal term implying a severe departure from reasonable care.

complete negligence

Replaces "carelessness" with a more formal term, emphasizing the neglect aspect.

unmitigated neglect

Stresses the absence of any excuse or justification for the neglect.

sheer recklessness

Shifts the focus to the risk-taking aspect, implying a disregard for consequences.

wanton negligence

Highlights the deliberate and malicious aspect of the negligence.

absolute disregard

Highlights the lack of attention or respect involved.

blatant disregard

Focuses on open, unashamed disrespect and lack of consideration.

total irresponsibility

Emphasizes the failure to fulfill obligations or duties.

extreme sloppiness

Focuses on the lack of precision and attention to detail.

careless abandon

Emphasizes the unrestrained and carefree nature of the carelessness.

FAQs

How can I use "utter carelessness" in a sentence?

"Utter carelessness" is often used to describe actions that have serious negative consequences due to a complete lack of attention or concern. For instance: "The accident was a result of "utter carelessness" on the part of the driver."

What are some alternatives to "utter carelessness"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "complete negligence", "sheer recklessness", or "absolute disregard". Each carries a slightly different nuance.

Is it better to say "utter carelessness" or "gross negligence"?

While both phrases indicate a significant lack of care, "gross negligence" is often used in legal contexts to describe a serious breach of duty, whereas "utter carelessness" is a more general term for extreme lack of attention.

What's the difference between "utter carelessness" and "simple carelessness"?

"Utter carelessness" implies a more severe degree of negligence and a higher level of culpability than "simple carelessness". The word "utter" intensifies the lack of care.