negligent
The doctor was found negligent for not diagnosing the patient's condition in time.
The doctor failed to provide proper care, leading to legal consequences.
Failing to exercise reasonable care, attention, or caution in performing a duty or task.
The company was sued for negligent hiring after an employee harmed a customer.
The company failed to properly screen the employee, leading to legal action.
In legal contexts, negligence often involves a breach of duty that results in harm.
Careless or indifferent in one's actions or responsibilities.
She was negligent in her work, often missing deadlines.
She did not take her responsibilities seriously, leading to poor performance.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Legal vs. General Use
In legal contexts, negligence often involves a breach of duty, while in general use, it refers to carelessness.
Gold Rule
Precision in Legal Contexts
In law, negligence requires proving a duty of care, a breach, causation, and harm.
Word Origin
From Latin 'negligentem', meaning 'careless', from 'negligere' (to neglect).
Usage Notes
Often used in legal contexts to describe a failure to meet a standard of care.