careless

The definition of careless is not paying proper attention to detail or not taking care to do something well enough or correctly.

(adjective)

A mistake you make because you aren't really paying attention is an example of a careless mistake.

See careless in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

without worry; carefree; untroubled
not paying enough attention; not thinking before one acts or speaks; neglectful; heedless; inconsiderate
done or made without enough attention, precision, etc.; not painstaking or thorough
artless; unstudied: a careless grace

Origin: ME careles < OE carleas: see care & -less

Related Forms:

See careless in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective

Taking insufficient care; negligent: a careless housekeeper; careless proofreading.
Marked by or resulting from lack of forethought or thoroughness: a careless mistake.
Showing a lack of consideration: a careless remark.
Unconcerned or indifferent; heedless: careless of the consequences.
Unstudied or effortless: danced with careless grace.
Exhibiting a disposition that is free from cares; cheerful: a careless grin; a careless wave of the hand.

Related Forms: