Definition

The quality of not being careful or cautious, often leading to mistakes or accidents.

Example

His incautiousness in handling the fragile items resulted in several breakages.

Conversation

I think his incautiousness is going to get him in trouble someday.

Yeah, he never thinks things through before acting.

Exactly! It’s like he doesn’t realize the risks involved.

I know, right? Sometimes you need to be more careful.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Incautiousness → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "cautious" (from Latin "cautiosus", meaning careful) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state of being). The word describes the state of not being careful or lacking caution.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not careful' ('in-' means not, and 'cautious' means careful) to remember that 'incautiousness' refers to a lack of caution.

Visually Confused Words