irresponsible
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌɪrɪˈspɒnsəbl/
KK: /ˌɪrɪˈspɑːnsəbl/
adjective
Definition
Not showing a sense of duty or care; someone who does not take responsibility for their actions or decisions.
Example
His irresponsible behavior led to serious consequences for everyone involved.
Conversation
I can't believe Jake forgot to bring the tickets again.
I know, it's so irresponsible of him.
He really needs to start taking things more seriously.
Absolutely, it’s frustrating when he acts like that.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
careless
negligent
reckless
Antonyms
responsible
reliable
trustworthy
noun
Definition
A person who does not take responsibility for their actions or decisions.
Example
He was considered irresponsible for not completing his assignments on time.
Conversation
I can't believe Jake forgot to pay his bills again.
Yeah, that's pretty typical for him; he's so irresponsible sometimes.
It's like he doesn't even care about the consequences.
Root Explanation
Irresponsible → It is formed from "ir-" (meaning not) and "responsible" (from Latin "responsabilis", meaning answerable or accountable). The word "irresponsible" means not being answerable or accountable for one's actions.
Memory Tip
Think of 'not' ('ir-') being accountable ('responsible') — that's why irresponsible means not being accountable.
Visually Confused Words
responsible
interresponsible
preresponsible
unresponsible
responsibly
superresponsible
sponsible