Top 32 Slang For Negligence – Meaning & Usage

Negligence is a serious issue that can have far-reaching consequences, but navigating the slang surrounding it doesn’t have to be a challenge. Our team has done the legwork to bring you a curated list of the top slang terms for negligence that you need to know. Stay informed and ahead of the game by diving into this listicle and brushing up on your knowledge of these crucial terms.

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1. Cutting corners

This phrase refers to the act of doing a task or completing a project in a hasty or careless manner, often sacrificing quality or safety in order to save time or effort.

For example, a construction worker might say, “The contractor was cutting corners by using cheap materials.”
In a business setting, a manager might warn against cutting corners and say, “We need to prioritize quality over speed.”
A journalist might write, “The company’s cost-cutting measures resulted in cutting corners and compromising product safety.”

2. Neglecting one’s duties

This slang phrase describes the act of not carrying out one’s duties or obligations, often due to laziness, indifference, or lack of attention.

For instance, a student might be accused of neglecting their duties if they consistently fail to complete assignments.
In a workplace, a coworker might complain, “He’s always neglecting his duties and leaving the rest of us to pick up the slack.”
A parent might say, “Neglecting one’s duties as a caregiver can have serious consequences for a child’s well-being.”

3. Being careless

This slang term refers to the lack of care or attention when performing a task or handling a situation, often resulting in mistakes, accidents, or negative consequences.

For example, a driver who is texting while driving can be described as being careless.
In a professional setting, a coworker might comment, “His careless mistakes are causing delays in the project.”
A teacher might reprimand a student by saying, “Being careless with your homework assignments shows a lack of effort and attention to detail.”

4. Shoddy workmanship

This phrase is used to describe work that is done poorly or with low quality, often due to negligence or lack of skill.

For instance, a customer might complain about shoddy workmanship if a product falls apart after a short period of use.
In a construction context, a contractor might be criticized for shoddy workmanship if the building develops structural issues.
A reviewer might write, “The shoddy workmanship of this product is evident in its cheap materials and lack of durability.”

5. Dereliction of duty

This term refers to the intentional or negligent failure to carry out one’s duties or obligations, often resulting in harm, loss, or negative consequences.

For example, a military officer who abandons their post could be charged with dereliction of duty.
In a legal context, a lawyer might argue that a defendant’s dereliction of duty caused harm to their client.
A supervisor might warn their employees, “Any dereliction of duty will not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action.”

6. Negligent behavior

This refers to actions or behavior that show a lack of care or attention to detail. Negligent behavior often leads to negative consequences or harm.

For instance, a driver who is texting while driving is engaging in negligent behavior.
In a workplace, an employee who consistently fails to follow safety protocols is displaying negligent behavior.
A parent who leaves their child unattended in a dangerous situation is acting negligently.

7. Slipping up

This phrase is used to describe making errors or mistakes, often unintentionally. Slipping up can occur due to carelessness or a momentary lapse in judgment.

For example, a student who forgets to submit an important assignment has slipped up.
A person who accidentally spills a drink on someone’s laptop has made a slip-up.
Someone who makes a verbal faux pas during a public speaking event has slipped up.

8. Ignoring responsibilities

This phrase refers to deliberately neglecting or avoiding one’s obligations or duties. Ignoring responsibilities can lead to negative consequences and can be seen as a form of negligence.

For instance, a person who consistently fails to pay their bills is ignoring their financial responsibilities.
An employee who neglects their work tasks and frequently misses deadlines is ignoring their professional responsibilities.
A parent who fails to provide proper care and attention to their child is ignoring their parental responsibilities.

9. Lackadaisical attitude

This term describes a casual, indifferent, or lazy attitude towards one’s responsibilities or tasks. A lackadaisical attitude often results in negligence and a lack of proper effort or attention.

For example, a student who consistently procrastinates and puts minimal effort into their assignments has a lackadaisical attitude.
An employee who shows little motivation or enthusiasm for their job and regularly makes mistakes is displaying a lackadaisical attitude.
A person who approaches important tasks with a nonchalant and careless mindset is exhibiting a lackadaisical attitude.

10. Neglecting obligations

This phrase refers to not fulfilling or disregarding one’s obligations or duties. Neglecting obligations often results in negligence and can have negative consequences.

For instance, a homeowner who fails to maintain their property and neglects necessary repairs is neglecting their obligations.
An employee who consistently fails to complete assigned tasks or meet deadlines is neglecting their work obligations.
A person who ignores their personal relationships and does not invest time or effort into maintaining them is neglecting their social obligations.

11. Dropped the ball

This phrase is often used to describe a situation where someone failed to complete a task or fulfill a responsibility.

For example, “I really dropped the ball on that project deadline.”
In sports, a commentator might say, “The quarterback dropped the ball, costing his team the game.”
A coworker might apologize by saying, “I’m sorry, I dropped the ball on that assignment.”

12. Half-assed

This term is used to describe something that was done in a lazy or careless manner.

For instance, “He did a half-assed job painting the fence.”
A teacher might scold a student by saying, “Your half-assed attempt at the assignment is not acceptable.”
A friend might criticize another friend’s cooking by saying, “That dish was definitely half-assed.”

13. Neglectful

This word describes someone who is not attentive or responsible in fulfilling their duties or obligations.

For example, “The neglectful parent left their child unattended for hours.”
A supervisor might give feedback by saying, “Your neglectful behavior is affecting the team’s productivity.”
A friend might express concern by saying, “You’ve been neglectful of your own well-being lately.”

14. Careless

This term is used to describe someone who does not pay enough attention or take proper care in their actions or responsibilities.

For instance, “She made a careless mistake on the exam and lost points.”
A parent might scold their child by saying, “You need to be more careful with your toys, or they might break.”
A coworker might comment, “His careless attitude towards safety is a concern.”

15. Irresponsible

This word describes someone who does not act in a responsible or dependable manner.

For example, “He was irresponsible with his finances and ended up in debt.”
A teacher might reprimand a student by saying, “Your irresponsible behavior is disrupting the class.”
A friend might express disappointment by saying, “I thought I could rely on you, but your actions have been irresponsible.”

16. Lackadaisical

This term describes someone who shows a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or effort in their actions or responsibilities. It can be used to describe a person’s attitude or behavior when they are negligent or not taking things seriously.

For example, “The lackadaisical employee constantly misses deadlines and makes mistakes.”
In a sports context, someone might say, “The team’s lackadaisical defense led to their loss.”
A teacher might complain about a lackadaisical student, saying, “He never completes his assignments and rarely pays attention in class.”

17. Negligent

This term refers to someone who is not paying enough attention or not taking the necessary precautions to avoid mistakes or harm. It can describe a person’s actions or behavior when they are being careless or not fulfilling their duties.

For instance, “The negligent driver caused a serious accident by running a red light.”
In a legal context, someone might be accused of negligent behavior if they fail to meet a reasonable standard of care.
A parent might scold their child for being negligent with their belongings, saying, “You left your phone outside in the rain! That’s negligent!”

18. Lax

This term describes someone who is not strict or careful enough in their actions or responsibilities. It can be used to describe a person’s attitude or behavior when they are not taking things seriously or not following rules or guidelines.

For example, “The lax security measures allowed unauthorized access to sensitive information.”
In a workplace setting, someone might say, “The lax management style leads to a lack of productivity.”
A teacher might complain about lax students who don’t put effort into their assignments, saying, “Their work is always sloppy and rushed.”

19. Shoddy

This term refers to something that is of low quality or poorly done. It can describe workmanship, products, or performance that is negligent or not up to standard.

For instance, “The contractor did a shoddy job on the repairs, and now we have to fix everything again.”
In a consumer context, someone might say, “I bought this shoddy product online, and it broke after a week.”
A teacher might criticize a student’s shoddy work, saying, “Your essay is full of spelling errors and lacks proper citations.”

20. Inattentive

This term describes someone who is not paying attention or lacks focus. It can be used to describe a person’s behavior or mindset when they are negligent or not fully engaged in a task or situation.

For example, “The inattentive student missed important instructions and failed the test.”
In a workplace setting, someone might say, “The inattentive employee frequently makes mistakes and misses important details.”
A coach might criticize an inattentive player, saying, “You need to be more focused on the game and stop being so inattentive.”

21. Neglecting

Neglecting refers to the act of not paying attention to something or someone that requires attention or care. It implies a lack of responsibility or indifference towards the matter at hand.

For example, “He lost his job because he was neglecting his duties.”
A parent might say, “I can’t believe you’ve been neglecting your studies.”
In a relationship, one partner might accuse the other of neglecting their emotional needs.

22. Remiss

Remiss describes someone who is careless or negligent in fulfilling their duties or responsibilities. It suggests a lack of attention or concern for the consequences of their actions.

For instance, “He was remiss in completing his assignments on time.”
A supervisor might say, “You have been remiss in your responsibilities as a team leader.”
Someone might comment, “It was remiss of him not to inform us about the change in plans.”

23. Lackluster

Lackluster refers to something that is dull, uninspired, or lacking in effort or enthusiasm. It implies a lack of interest or motivation, resulting in a subpar or mediocre outcome.

For example, “The lackluster performance of the team disappointed the fans.”
A reviewer might say, “The movie received lackluster reviews due to its predictable plot.”
A teacher might comment, “The lackluster participation in class discussions is concerning.”

24. Indifferent

Indifferent describes someone who shows no interest, concern, or sympathy towards a particular matter. It suggests a lack of emotional investment or indifference towards the consequences of their actions.

For instance, “He was indifferent to the suffering of others.”
A friend might say, “I can’t believe you’re so indifferent about the outcome.”
In a discussion about environmental issues, someone might argue, “We cannot afford to be indifferent to the impact of our actions.”

25. Apathetic

Apathetic describes someone who shows no interest, enthusiasm, or concern towards something. It suggests a lack of motivation or emotional investment, resulting in a lack of effort or action.

For example, “The apathetic response from the audience disappointed the performer.”
A student might say, “I’m feeling apathetic towards my studies lately.”
A voter might comment, “The apathetic turnout for the election reflects a lack of engagement in the political process.”

26. Negligent inaction

This refers to the act of not taking appropriate action or not fulfilling one’s obligations, resulting in harm or negative consequences. Negligent inaction can occur in various situations, such as failing to address a safety concern or not taking steps to prevent an accident.

For example, a supervisor might say, “The employee’s negligent inaction led to a serious workplace accident.”
In a discussion about parenting, someone might comment, “Negligent inaction can have long-lasting effects on a child’s well-being.”
A news article might describe a situation as, “The company’s negligent inaction in response to customer complaints sparked public outrage.”

27. Lack of attention to detail

This refers to a lack of focus or thoroughness in one’s work or actions, resulting in errors or mistakes. A lack of attention to detail can lead to negligence, as important details or steps may be overlooked.

For instance, a coworker might say, “Her lack of attention to detail caused delays in the project.”
In a review of a restaurant, someone might write, “The lack of attention to detail in the plating of the dishes was disappointing.”
A teacher might comment on a student’s paper, “Your grade reflects your lack of attention to detail in proofreading.”

28. Half-hearted effort

This refers to putting minimal effort or energy into a task or activity, often resulting in subpar results. A half-hearted effort shows a lack of dedication or genuine interest in achieving the desired outcome.

For example, a coach might say to a player, “Your half-hearted effort during practice is holding back the whole team.”
In a discussion about work ethic, someone might comment, “A half-hearted effort will never lead to success.”
A parent might scold their child, saying, “I expect more than a half-hearted effort on your school assignments.”

29. Inattentiveness

This refers to a state of not paying attention or being easily distracted, leading to negligence or oversight of important details or responsibilities. Inattentiveness can occur due to various factors, such as fatigue, boredom, or lack of interest.

For instance, a teacher might say to a student, “Your inattentiveness in class is hindering your learning.”
In a discussion about safe driving, someone might comment, “Inattentiveness on the road can have serious consequences.”
A manager might address an employee, saying, “Your inattentiveness to customer needs is affecting our business.”

30. Neglecting safety protocols

This refers to disregarding or not adhering to established safety procedures or protocols, putting oneself or others at risk. Neglecting safety protocols can occur in various contexts, such as in the workplace, at home, or during recreational activities.

For example, a supervisor might say, “Neglecting safety protocols can result in severe injuries or accidents.”
In a discussion about construction sites, someone might comment, “Neglecting safety protocols can lead to costly fines and legal consequences.”
A safety officer might remind employees, “Neglecting safety protocols is not only irresponsible but also jeopardizes the well-being of everyone on site.”

31. Not holding up one’s end

This phrase refers to someone not fulfilling their responsibilities or failing to do their fair share of the work. It implies negligence or a lack of effort on their part.

For example, in a group project, a team member might be criticized for “not holding up their end” by not completing their assigned tasks.
In a workplace setting, a supervisor might reprimand an employee for “slacking off” and not meeting their job requirements.
A friend might complain about another friend, saying, “She’s always not holding up her end when it comes to planning events.”

32. Neglecting maintenance

This phrase refers to the act of not properly taking care of something or failing to perform necessary maintenance tasks. It implies negligence and can lead to the deterioration or malfunction of the item.

For instance, a homeowner might be criticized for “neglecting maintenance” by not regularly cleaning or repairing their house.
A car owner might experience problems with their vehicle if they have been “ignoring upkeep” by not getting regular oil changes or inspections.
A landlord might confront a tenant for “neglecting maintenance” by not reporting or fixing issues in the rental property.