What does regardlessly mean?
Regardlessly is an adverb describing an action carried out without regard for consequences, danger, objections, or the effects on others. It commonly describes conduct that is careless, heedless, or reckless, such as continuing despite warnings, ignoring criticism, or proceeding without considering possible harm. The word often appears in formal or serious contexts, although its meaning can apply equally to everyday behavior. It is more specific and emphatic than the shorter regardless, which can stand alone or be followed by "of" in phrases such as "regardless of the risk." Regardlessly is normally used as an adverb and is not commonly followed by "of." Although a relatively uncommon word, it is useful when the focus is on the manner of an action and on the absence of concern for consequences. Its unusual form may also cause writers to consider whether the simpler regardless would communicate the intended meaning more naturally.
adverbWithout regard for consequences, danger, objections, or the effects on others; in a careless or heedless manner.
- In a careless or heedless manner, without regard for consequences, danger, objections, or the effects on others.
"She drove on regardlessly despite the worsening weather and repeated warnings from the police."
"She drove on regardlessly despite the worsening weather and repeated warnings from the police."
"The committee continued regardlessly, ignoring repeated objections to the proposal."
The consequences are not part of the calculation: that is the central idea behind "regardlessly."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does regardlessly come from?
Regardlessly is an English formation made by adding the adverbial suffix -ly to regardless, which combines regard with the suffix -less. Regard entered Middle English from Old French regarder, ultimately derived from Latin regardere, meaning “to look back at” or “to consider.” The same root appears in disregard, regardful, and regardant; regardlessly develops the idea of proceeding without regard to consequences or objections.
How regardlessly is actually used
Regardlessly is somewhat formal and generally carries a negative connotation, suggesting that an action proceeds without sufficient consideration of consequences or objections. It is less common than the shorter regardless, which can also be used before "of."
Easily confused with regardlessly
Regardless is the shorter and more versatile form, used on its own or followed by "of," as in "regardless of the consequences"; regardlessly is an adverb meaning that something is done without regard for those consequences.