What does inconsiderately mean?
Inconsiderately means in a way that shows a lack of thought, care, or sensitivity. People behave inconsiderately when they interrupt conversations, ignore other people's needs, speak carelessly, or make decisions without considering their consequences. The word is commonly used with verbs such as “act,” “speak,” “leave,” and “reply,” and it can convey moral criticism as well as a practical judgment that someone's action was careless. Although it may describe behavior that was accidental rather than deliberately unkind, the term generally suggests that the person should have thought more carefully. Its adjective form, “inconsiderate,” is similarly common, while “inconsideration” can be used as a noun for thoughtlessness or lack of regard for others.
adverbIn a way that shows lack of thought or consideration for other people, feelings, or consequences. It describes careless, insensitive, or thoughtless behavior.
- In a way that is careless, insensitive, or lacking consideration for other people or possible consequences.
"He replied inconsiderately and made the situation more difficult for everyone involved."
"She had left the room inconsiderately without telling anyone she was going."
"The plan was implemented inconsiderately, without consulting the people who would be affected."
Inconsiderately is a useful label for the small acts of thoughtlessness that can do more damage than they seem to.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does inconsiderately come from?
The word is formed from the Latin prefix in- meaning “not” and “considerate,” which comes from Latin considerare, meaning “to look at carefully” or “to think about.” Inconsiderate developed in English in the early 17th century, originally with meanings related to lack of care or thought, and the adverb “inconsiderately” followed the same root. The related English words “consider,” “considered,” “considerate,” and “consideration” preserve the same Latin foundation.
Related word forms
How inconsiderately is actually used
Usually describes a person's words, actions, or decisions, and commonly implies that the person failed to think about other people's feelings or the likely consequences. It is more common in formal and semi-formal written English than in casual speech.
Easily confused with inconsiderately
Considerately means with thought and sensitivity toward others, whereas inconsiderately describes behavior that lacks such thought or sensitivity.