IRRESPONSIBLE Synonyms: 48 Similar and Opposite Words

irresponsible

adjective

ˌir-i-ˈspän(t)-sə-bəl

Definition of irresponsible

as in reckless

having or showing a lack of concern for the consequences of one's actions it was irresponsible to go off and leave your baby unattended in an automobile

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of irresponsible Milei has offered little sympathy for struggling Argentines, blaming the surge in delinquencies on irresponsible spending. — Débora Rey, Los Angeles Times, 10 Sep. 2026 Ryan Tarosas, owner of Fox 14 Marina on the river in Algonquin, said no law is going to stop the few irresponsible drivers. — Robert McCoppin, Chicago Tribune, 7 Sep. 2026 The same topics that would earn an adult novel praise as serious and important can be viewed as gratuitous or even irresponsible in Young Adult. — Rebecca Stafford, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 2026 The last time Harry Brook batted in a Test for England his performance was so chaotic, frenetic and, frankly, irresponsible that New Zealand’s players laughed at him. — Paul Newman, New York Times, 23 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for irresponsible

Recent Examples of Synonyms for irresponsible

reckless

Adjective

This is a reckless budget that uses our children as bargaining chips.

— Claire Malon, Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026
The Dodgers’ grand prize from the trade deadline was hardly a reckless choice to start Game 1 of the division series.

— Bill Shaikin, Los Angeles Times, 7 Oct. 2026