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negligence

noun

/ˈnɛg lɪ dʒəns/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of negligence

The act or state of neglecting one's duty or failing to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm, damage, or injury to others.
"The doctor was sued for medical negligence after a mishap during surgery."

Detailed meaning of negligence

It is a legal concept that encompasses the failure to fulfill a required standard of care or a breach of duty that a reasonable person would have exercised in similar circumstances. Negligence implies a lack of attention, care, or prudence, whether it be in personal conduct, professional responsibilities, or the operation of machinery and systems. It can manifest in various contexts, such as medical malpractice, car accidents, product liability cases, or workplace safety violations. Negligence is a significant legal concept as it forms the basis for many civil lawsuits seeking compensation for the harm caused by the careless actions or inactions of individuals, businesses, or institutions.

Example sentences containing negligence

1. Medical negligence can have severe consequences for patients.
2. Negligence in maintenance caused the equipment failure.
3. Legal action was taken due to corporate negligence.
4. Negligence in construction led to the building collapse.
5. Negligence is often the root cause of workplace accidents.
6. The lawsuit alleges negligence in the handling of data.

History and etymology of negligence

The noun 'negligence' traces its etymological roots to the Latin word 'negligentia,' derived from 'neglegere,' which combines 'neg-' meaning 'not' and 'legere' meaning 'to choose' or 'to pick.' In Latin, 'negligentia' signified a lack of care or attention, reflecting the failure to choose or pick the right course of action. Over time, as the word entered the English language, 'negligence' came to represent the act or state of neglecting one's duty or failing to exercise reasonable care, often resulting in harm, damage, or injury to others. This term underscores the importance of being diligent and attentive in one's responsibilities and actions to prevent adverse consequences.

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Further usage examples of negligence

1. Negligence resulted in a breach of trust with clients.
2. He was found liable for negligence in the accident.
3. Negligence in fire safety led to tragic consequences.
4. Negligence in childcare can be a criminal offense.
5. Financial negligence can lead to serious financial losses.
6. Negligence in product design can harm consumers.
7. Legal consequences can follow medical negligence cases.
8. Negligence can tarnish a professional's reputation.
9. Negligence claims can be complex and contentious.
10. The report highlighted systemic negligence in the company.
11. Negligence in cybersecurity can expose sensitive data.
12. The accident was a result of driver negligence.
13. Negligence can lead to costly legal battles.
14. Holding individuals accountable for negligence is crucial.
15. His negligence in maintaining the car led to its eventual breakdown.
16. The factory explosion was attributed to the company’s negligence in following safety protocols.
17. The building’s collapse was a clear case of negligence on the part of the construction company.
18. She was frustrated by her neighbor’s negligence in controlling his barking dog.
19. The fire marshal determined that the homeowner’s negligence was the cause of the fire.
20. The student's poor grades were due to his negligence in attending classes.
21. The lifeguard was accused of negligence when he failed to notice a swimmer in distress.
22. The flood damage was exacerbated by the city’s negligence in maintaining the levees.
23. The spill was a result of the waiter’s negligence in handling the tray properly.
24. The child’s injury at the playground was blamed on parental negligence.
25. Negligence in handling sensitive data can have serious consequences for a company.
26. The park's deteriorating condition is due to the local government's negligence in maintenance.
27. His constant negligence in keeping his room tidy annoyed his roommates.
28. The loss of the documents was due to the clerk's negligence in filing them properly.