At the A1 CEFR level, learners are just beginning to understand and use basic Hindi words and phrases. They can grasp the fundamental meaning of 'लापरवाही' as simply 'not being careful' or 'carelessness'. Sentences will be very simple, focusing on identifying the word and its most direct translation. They will likely encounter it in short, direct statements about everyday mistakes.
A2 learners can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance. They can begin to understand 'लापरवाही' as a lack of attention that leads to minor problems. They can form simple sentences using the word, often with basic cause-and-effect structures like 'because of negligence'. They might encounter it in simple narratives about daily life or common accidents.
B1 learners can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters. They can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes & ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans. They can understand 'लापरवाही' in more nuanced contexts, recognizing its implications for safety, responsibility, and potential consequences. They can use it in more complex sentences to explain why something happened or to assign blame.
B2 learners can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics. They can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible. They can analyze the causes and effects of 'लापरवाही' in a wider range of situations, including professional or legal contexts. They can discuss the severity of different types of negligence and their societal impact.
C1 learners can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. They can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. They can understand the subtle differences between 'लापरवाही' and similar words like 'उपेक्षा' or 'बेपरवाही'. They can use the word in formal writing, legal discussions, and sophisticated arguments, appreciating its connotations and implications.
C2 learners have an apparently effortless command of the language both in comprehension and expression. They can understand virtually everything heard or read with ease. They can use 'लापरवाही' with complete mastery, understanding its full spectrum of meanings, including its idiomatic and figurative uses. They can engage in high-level academic or professional discourse where precise terminology is crucial.

लापरवाही in 30 Seconds

  • Lack of care or attention.
  • Being careless or indifferent.
  • Not being mindful of consequences.
  • Failure to be diligent.
Meaning
लापरवाही (laparvāhī) fundamentally means negligence, carelessness, or a lack of proper attention and care. It describes a state where someone is not being diligent enough about their responsibilities, safety, or the well-being of others. Think of it as not paying attention to details or potential risks.
Usage Contexts
You'll hear this word in various situations where someone's actions or inactions have led to a negative outcome due to a lack of care. For example, in traffic accidents, if a driver was speeding or not paying attention, their actions would be described as लापरवाही. In a workplace, if an employee makes a mistake because they weren't focused, it's their लापरवाही. Even in everyday life, if you forget to lock your door and something gets stolen, it could be attributed to your लापरवाही. It's a common word used to point out where diligence was missing.
Consequences
The term often implies that the negligence has led to some form of harm, damage, or undesirable situation. It's not just about being a bit forgetful; it's about a significant lapse in attentiveness that has tangible negative results. For instance, a doctor's लापरवाही could have severe health consequences for a patient. A company's लापरवाही in safety protocols could lead to industrial accidents.

उसकी लापरवाही के कारण गाड़ी दुर्घटनाग्रस्त हो गई। (Usakī laparvāhī ke kāraṇ gāṛī durghaṭanāgrast ho gaī.)

Translation: His negligence caused the car to crash.
Basic Sentence Structure
The simplest way to use लापरवाही is to link it to a person or an action that caused it. Often, it's followed by 'के कारण' (ke kāraṇ - because of) or used as the subject of a sentence describing a negative event.
Attributing Negligence
You can say 'किसी की लापरवाही' (kisī kī laparvāhī - someone's negligence) or specify the person, like 'मेरी लापरवाही' (merī laparvāhī - my negligence). This phrase is then connected to the consequence.
Describing Actions
Sometimes, the action itself is described as negligent. For example, 'यह एक लापरवाही भरा काम था' (Yah ek laparvāhī bharā kām thā - This was a negligent act). The adjective 'भर' (bhar) meaning 'full of' is often used here.
Examples
-

तुम्हारी लापरवाही की वजह से सब बिगड़ गया। (Tumhārī laparvāhī kī vajah se sab bigaṛ gayā.)

Translation: Because of your negligence, everything got ruined.
-

कंपनी ने सुरक्षा लापरवाही के लिए जुर्माना भरा। (Kampanī ne surakṣā laparvāhī ke lie jurmānā bharā.)

Translation: The company paid a fine for safety negligence.
-

यह एक गंभीर लापरवाही है। (Yah ek gambhīr laparvāhī hai.)

Translation: This is a serious negligence.
News Reports
You will frequently encounter 'लापरवाही' in news reports, especially when discussing accidents, industrial mishaps, or instances where public safety has been compromised. News anchors and journalists use it to describe the cause of such events when a lack of care is evident.
Legal and Official Contexts
In legal proceedings or official inquiries, 'लापरवाही' is a crucial term. It's used to establish fault or blame when someone failed to meet a certain standard of care. For instance, a court might rule that a party acted with 'लापरवाही' in a case involving injury or damages.
Workplace Discussions
Managers, supervisors, and colleagues might use 'लापरवाही' to address instances of poor performance or mistakes made due to a lack of focus or attention. It's often used in performance reviews or when discussing safety protocols.
Everyday Conversations
In casual conversations, people use 'लापरवाही' to comment on situations where someone was clearly not careful enough. This could be anything from forgetting an appointment to leaving valuable items unattended. It's a common way to express mild criticism or to explain why something went wrong.
Example Scenarios
- A traffic police officer might tell a driver, "आपकी लापरवाही के कारण यह हादसा हुआ।" (Āpkī laparvāhī ke kāraṇ yah hādsā huā - This accident happened due to your negligence.) - A parent might scold their child, "पढ़ाई में लापरवाही मत करो।" (Paṛhāī meṁ laparvāhī mat karo - Don't be negligent in your studies.) - A doctor might warn a patient, "दवा लेने में लापरवाही न करें।" (Davā lene meṁ laparvāhī na kareṁ - Do not be negligent in taking medicine.)
Confusing with 'forgetfulness'
Learners sometimes confuse 'लापरवाही' with simple forgetfulness. While forgetfulness can be a symptom of negligence, 'लापरवाही' implies a more significant lack of care or attention, often with more serious consequences. Forgetting to buy milk is forgetfulness; forgetting to check the brakes on a car is 'लापरवाही'.
Incorrect grammatical usage
Students might misuse the word grammatically. For example, using it as a verb or an adjective incorrectly. Remember, 'लापरवाही' is primarily a noun. If you want to use it as an adjective, you often need to add 'भरा' (bharā) to make it 'लापरवाही भरा' (laparvāhī bharā - full of negligence/negligent).
Overuse or Underuse
Some learners might overuse 'लापरवाही' for minor issues, diluting its meaning. Conversely, they might underuse it in situations where it's clearly applicable, perhaps due to hesitation in assigning blame. It's important to use it appropriately where a genuine lack of care has led to a problem.
Literal Translation Pitfalls
Directly translating 'negligence' without understanding the nuance can lead to errors. While 'negligence' is a good English equivalent, the specific context in Hindi might require careful phrasing. Always consider the severity and the outcome when deciding if 'लापरवाही' is the right word.
Example of Misuse
- Incorrect: 'मैंने लापरवाही की।' (Maine laparvāhī kī - I did negligence.) - This is grammatically awkward. - Correct: 'मैंने लापरवाही की।' (Maine laparvāhī kī - I was negligent.) or 'यह मेरी लापरवाही थी।' (Yah merī laparvāhī thī - This was my negligence.) - Incorrect: 'वह एक लापरवाह आदमी है।' (Vah ek lāparvāh ādmī hai - He is a negligent man.) - While 'लापरवाह' is an adjective, using 'लापरवाही' as a noun is more common in formal contexts. - Correct: 'उसकी लापरवाही के कारण हमें नुकसान हुआ।' (Usakī laparvāhī ke kāraṇ hameṁ nuksan huā - We suffered a loss due to his negligence.)
लापरवाह (Laparvāh)
This is the adjectival form of लापरवाही. While लापरवाही is a noun meaning 'negligence', लापरवाह describes a person or action that is negligent or careless.
Example: 'वह एक लापरवाह ड्राइवर है।' (Vah ek lāparvāh ḍrāivar hai - He is a careless driver.)
Comparison: लापरवाही is the quality or state of being negligent; लापरवाह is the one who exhibits that quality.
असावधानी (Asāvdhānī)
This word also means carelessness or inattention, but it often implies a less severe or more momentary lapse. It can be a good alternative for less serious situations.
Example: 'थोड़ी असावधानी के कारण मैंने कप गिरा दिया।' (Thoṛī asāvdhānī ke kāraṇ maiṁne kap girā diyā - Due to a little carelessness, I dropped the cup.)
Comparison: While both refer to a lack of attention, असावधानी might suggest a less impactful mistake than लापरवाही, which often carries a connotation of more significant consequences.
उपेक्षा (Upekṣā)
This word means neglect or disregard. It's often used when someone intentionally or unintentionally ignores something or someone, failing to provide the necessary attention or care. It can overlap with लापरवाही but often carries a stronger sense of deliberate ignoring.
Example: 'बच्चों की उपेक्षा करना गलत है।' (Bacchoṁ kī upekṣā karanā galat hai - Neglecting children is wrong.)
Comparison: उपेक्षा can involve a more conscious decision to ignore, whereas लापरवाही might stem from a more passive lack of attention. However, in some contexts, they are interchangeable.
बेपरवाही (Beparvāhī)
This is very close to लापरवाही and is often used interchangeably. It means recklessness or carelessness, often implying a disregard for rules or safety. It can sometimes suggest a more active form of not caring.
Example: 'उसकी बेपरवाही ने सबको खतरे में डाल दिया।' (Usakī beparvāhī ne sabko khatre meṁ ḍālā diyā - His recklessness put everyone in danger.)
Comparison: Both words convey a lack of care. बेपरवाही might sometimes emphasize a more defiant or bold kind of carelessness, whereas लापरवाही can be more general. However, the distinction is subtle and context-dependent.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The root 'parvāh' (پروه) itself relates to concepts of flying or spreading, and by extension, to caring or being concerned about something. So, 'lā-parvāh' literally means 'not flying over' or 'not concerned about'. The noun form 'lāparvāhī' signifies the state or quality of this lack of concern.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /lɑːpərˈvɑːhiː/
US /lɑːpərˈvɑːhi/
The primary stress is on the second syllable: la-par-VAH-ee.
Rhymes With
Awaahi Dawaahi Gawaahi Jawaahi Pahahi Rawaahi Sawaahi Tabaahi
Common Errors
  • Misplacing stress: Saying LA-par-va-hi or la-par-va-HI.
  • Pronouncing 'v' as 'w': Some learners might pronounce it as 'lah-per-wah-hee'.
  • Not aspirating the 'h': The 'h' sound should be clearly aspirated, like in 'house'.
  • Shortening the vowel sounds: Ensuring the 'a' in 'va' is elongated enough.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

At A1 level, reading comprehension of 'लापरवाही' will be limited to very simple sentences where the context clearly indicates a lack of care. Understanding its nuances will require higher proficiency.

Writing 2/5

Beginners can use 'लापरवाही' in basic sentences, but constructing complex or nuanced expressions requires a solid understanding of its grammatical usage and connotations.

Speaking 2/5

Pronouncing and using 'लापरवाही' correctly in spoken Hindi can be challenging due to stress and subtle contextual meanings.

Listening 2/5

Distinguishing 'लापरवाही' from similar words in spoken Hindi, especially in fast conversations, can be difficult for beginners.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

काम (kām - work) गाड़ी (gāṛī - car) सुरक्षा (surakṣā - safety) कारण (kāraṇ - reason) गलती (galatī - mistake) सावधान (sāvdhān - careful)

Learn Next

लापरवाह (lāparvāh - adjective) असावधानी (asāvdhānī - carelessness) जिम्मेदारी (zimmedārī - responsibility) परिणाम (pariṇām - consequence) नुकसान (nuksan - loss/damage)

Advanced

उपेक्षा (upekṣā - neglect) बेपरवाही (beparvāhī - recklessness) अनदेखी (andekhī - overlooking) गंभीर (gambhīr - serious) जानबूझकर (jānbūjhkar - deliberately)

Grammar to Know

Using 'के कारण' (ke kāraṇ) or 'की वजह से' (kī vajah se) to show cause and effect.

उसकी लापरवाही के कारण दुर्घटना हुई। (The accident happened due to his negligence.)

Using the adjective form 'लापरवाह' (lāparvāh) to describe a person or action.

वह एक लापरवाह व्यक्ति है। (He is a careless person.)

Forming noun phrases with 'लापरवाही'.

सुरक्षा लापरवाही। (Safety negligence.)

Using negative imperatives with 'लापरवाही'.

लापरवाही मत करो। (Don't be negligent.)

Possessive pronouns with 'लापरवाही'.

मेरी लापरवाही। (My negligence.)

Examples by Level

1

यह मेरी लापरवाही थी।

This was my negligence.

Simple possessive + noun.

2

गाड़ी में लापरवाही मत करो।

Don't be negligent in the car.

Imperative negative + noun.

3

बहुत लापरवाही है।

It is very negligent.

Adverb + noun.

4

काम में लापरवाही नहीं।

No negligence in work.

Noun + negative particle.

5

उसकी लापरवाही

His negligence.

Possessive pronoun + noun.

6

यह लापरवाही है।

This is negligence.

Pronoun + noun.

7

थोड़ी लापरवाही

A little negligence.

Quantifier + noun.

8

सावधान, लापरवाही नहीं।

Be careful, no negligence.

Imperative + noun + negative.

1

आपकी लापरवाही से दुर्घटना हुई।

An accident happened due to your negligence.

Possessive + noun + 'से' (se - from/due to).

2

काम में लापरवाही मत करो।

Do not be negligent in work.

Imperative negative + prepositional phrase.

3

यह एक लापरवाही भरा काम था।

This was a negligent act.

Noun + adjective phrase.

4

उसकी लापरवाही के कारण हम हार गए।

We lost because of his negligence.

Possessive + noun + 'के कारण' (ke kāraṇ - because of).

5

सावधान रहें, लापरवाही खतरनाक हो सकती है।

Be careful, negligence can be dangerous.

Imperative + noun + verb.

6

बच्चों के प्रति लापरवाही नहीं होनी चाहिए।

There should be no negligence towards children.

Prepositional phrase + noun + modal verb.

7

इस लापरवाही की सजा मिलेगी।

There will be punishment for this negligence.

Demonstrative + noun + future tense.

8

मैंने अपनी लापरवाही स्वीकार की।

I admitted my negligence.

Possessive + noun + verb.

1

सुरक्षा लापरवाही के कारण कंपनी पर जुर्माना लगाया गया।

The company was fined due to safety negligence.

Noun + noun + 'के कारण' (ke kāraṇ - due to).

2

डॉक्टर की लापरवाही के गंभीर परिणाम हो सकते हैं।

There can be serious consequences of a doctor's negligence.

Possessive + noun + adjective + noun.

3

हमें अपने काम में लापरवाही नहीं करनी चाहिए।

We should not be negligent in our work.

Prepositional phrase + noun + modal verb negative.

4

उसकी लापरवाही की वजह से संपत्ति का नुकसान हुआ।

Property was damaged due to his negligence.

Possessive + noun + 'की वजह से' (kī vajah se - due to).

5

यह घटना लापरवाही का एक स्पष्ट उदाहरण है।

This incident is a clear example of negligence.

Noun + adjective + noun.

6

प्रबंधन की लापरवाही के कारण कर्मचारी नाराज थे।

Employees were angry due to the management's negligence.

Possessive + noun + 'के कारण' (ke kāraṇ - due to).

7

क्या आप अपनी लापरवाही स्वीकार करते हैं?

Do you admit your negligence?

Interrogative + possessive + noun + verb.

8

गलतियों से सीखें, लापरवाही से नहीं।

Learn from mistakes, not from negligence.

Imperative + noun + comparative.

1

अदालत ने लापरवाही के लिए कंपनी को दोषी ठहराया।

The court found the company guilty of negligence.

Noun + 'के लिए' (ke lie - for) + noun + verb.

2

सुरक्षा नियमों की लापरवाही के गंभीर परिणाम हो सकते हैं।

Negligence of safety rules can have serious consequences.

Noun + noun + 'के' (ke - of) + noun + verb.

3

उसके व्यक्तिगत लापरवाही के कारण पूरा प्रोजेक्ट खतरे में पड़ गया।

Due to his personal negligence, the entire project was put at risk.

Adjective + noun + 'के कारण' (ke kāraṇ - due to) + noun.

4

प्रशासनिक लापरवाही ने स्थिति को और खराब कर दिया।

Administrative negligence worsened the situation.

Adjective + noun + verb.

5

यह स्वीकार करना कठिन है कि यह हमारी अपनी लापरवाही थी।

It is difficult to accept that it was our own negligence.

Pronoun + possessive + noun.

6

इस लापरवाही के लिए जिम्मेदार लोगों को जवाबदेह ठहराया जाएगा।

Those responsible for this negligence will be held accountable.

Demonstrative + noun + noun phrase + verb.

7

हमें लापरवाही के बजाय सतर्कता बरतनी चाहिए।

We should exercise vigilance instead of negligence.

Noun + 'के बजाय' (ke bajāy - instead of) + noun + verb.

8

अक्सर लापरवाही ज्ञान की कमी से उत्पन्न होती है।

Often negligence arises from a lack of knowledge.

Adverb + noun + verb + prepositional phrase.

1

कानून लापरवाही को गंभीरता से लेता है, खासकर जब सार्वजनिक सुरक्षा दांव पर हो।

The law takes negligence seriously, especially when public safety is at stake.

Noun + noun + 'को' (ko - object marker) + verb + adverbial clause.

2

यह लापरवाही न केवल व्यक्तिगत थी, बल्कि प्रणालीगत भी थी।

This negligence was not only personal but also systemic.

Demonstrative + noun + conjunction + adjective + conjunction + adjective.

3

अत्यधिक लापरवाही के कारण कई निर्दोष लोग पीड़ित हुए।

Many innocent people suffered due to extreme negligence.

Adverb + noun + 'के कारण' (ke kāraṇ - due to) + noun phrase + verb.

4

हमारी लापरवाही के इतिहास को देखते हुए, हमें बहुत सावधान रहना होगा।

Given our history of negligence, we must be very careful.

Possessive + noun + 'के इतिहास को देखते हुए' (ke itihās ko dekhte hue - given the history of) + adverb + verb.

5

इस लापरवाही की पुनरावृत्ति को रोकने के लिए कड़े उपाय किए जाने चाहिए।

Strict measures must be taken to prevent the recurrence of this negligence.

Demonstrative + noun + noun + 'को रोकने के लिए' (ko rokne ke lie - to prevent) + adjective + noun + verb.

6

यह लापरवाही केवल एक गलती नहीं थी, बल्कि जानबूझकर की गई उपेक्षा थी।

This negligence was not just a mistake, but a deliberate disregard.

Demonstrative + noun + conjunction + noun + conjunction + adjective + noun.

7

पर्यावरण के प्रति लापरवाही के विनाशकारी परिणाम हो सकते हैं।

Negligence towards the environment can have devastating consequences.

Prepositional phrase + noun + verb.

8

साक्ष्य लापरवाही के एक पैटर्न की ओर इशारा करते हैं।

The evidence points towards a pattern of negligence.

Noun + noun + 'की ओर इशारा करते हैं' (kī or iśārā karte haiṁ - points towards).

1

न्यायिक प्रणाली में लापरवाही के दुष्परिणामों को कम करके नहीं आंका जा सकता।

The adverse effects of negligence in the judicial system cannot be underestimated.

Noun + noun + 'में' (meṁ - in) + noun + 'के दुष्परिणामों को' (ke duṣpariṇāmoṁ ko - the adverse effects of) + verb.

2

व्यक्तिगत लापरवाही के व्यक्तिगत कृत्यों से परे, हम लापरवाही के एक संस्थागत ढांचे को देख सकते हैं।

Beyond the individual acts of personal negligence, we can observe an institutional framework of negligence.

Adjective + noun + 'के व्यक्तिगत कृत्यों से परे' (ke vyaktigat kr̥tyoṁ se pare - beyond the individual acts of) + pronoun + noun + 'को देख सकते हैं' (ko dekh sakte haiṁ - can observe).

3

सांस्कृतिक लापरवाही का अर्थ अक्सर ऐतिहासिक विरासतों के प्रति उपेक्षा होता है।

Cultural negligence often implies a disregard for historical legacies.

Adjective + noun + 'का अर्थ अक्सर' (kā arth aksar - often means) + noun + 'के प्रति उपेक्षा होता है' (ke prati upekṣā hotā hai - is disregard towards).

4

इस लापरवाही की जड़ें गहरी हैं, जो पुरानी नीतियों और अपर्याप्त निगरानी में निहित हैं।

The roots of this negligence are deep, stemming from old policies and inadequate oversight.

Demonstrative + noun + 'की जड़ें गहरी हैं' (kī jaṛeṁ gaharī haiṁ - roots are deep) + clause.

5

तकनीकी लापरवाही के कारण होने वाली दुर्घटनाओं को रोकने के लिए, हमें निरंतर प्रशिक्षण और अद्यतन की आवश्यकता है।

To prevent accidents caused by technological negligence, we need continuous training and updates.

Adjective + noun + 'के कारण होने वाली दुर्घटनाओं को रोकने के लिए' (ke kāraṇ hone vālī durghaṭanāoṁ ko rokne ke lie - to prevent accidents caused by) + pronoun + verb.

6

किसी भी लापरवाही के लिए कोई बहाना स्वीकार नहीं किया जाएगा।

No excuse will be accepted for any negligence.

Interrogative + noun + 'के लिए' (ke lie - for) + noun + verb.

7

यह लापरवाही अनजाने में नहीं, बल्कि व्यवस्था की अंतर्निहित खामियों का परिणाम थी।

This negligence was not unintentional, but a result of inherent flaws in the system.

Demonstrative + noun + conjunction + noun + conjunction + noun + 'का परिणाम थी' (kā pariṇām thī - was a result of).

8

मानव लापरवाही के बावजूद, प्रौद्योगिकी सुरक्षा में सुधार कर सकती है।

Despite human negligence, technology can improve safety.

Adjective + noun + 'के बावजूद' (ke bāvajūd - despite) + noun + verb.

Common Collocations

जानबूझकर लापरवाही
गंभीर लापरवाही
सुरक्षा लापरवाही
काम में लापरवाही
लापरवाही बरतना
लापरवाही के कारण
पूर्ण लापरवाही
लापरवाही बरतना
लापरवाही का परिणाम
अत्यधिक लापरवाही

Common Phrases

लापरवाही बरतना

— To be negligent or to act carelessly.

हमें अपने स्वास्थ्य के प्रति लापरवाही नहीं बरतनी चाहिए। (Hameṁ apne svāsthya ke prati laparvāhī nahīṁ baratnī cāhie. - We should not be negligent about our health.)

लापरवाही के कारण

— Due to negligence or because of carelessness.

उनकी लापरवाही के कारण वे परीक्षा में असफल हो गए। (Unkī laparvāhī ke kāraṇ ve parīkṣā meṁ asaphal ho gae. - Due to their negligence, they failed the exam.)

यह लापरवाही है

— This is negligence or this is careless.

बिजली के तार खुले छोड़ना यह लापरवाही है। (Bijlī ke tār khule choṛnā yah laparvāhī hai. - Leaving electrical wires exposed is negligence.)

जानबूझकर लापरवाही

— Deliberate negligence or intentional carelessness.

यह कोई दुर्घटना नहीं, बल्कि जानबूझकर लापरवाही थी। (Yah koī durghaṭanā nahīṁ, balki jānbūjhkar laparvāhī thī. - This was not an accident, but deliberate negligence.)

गंभीर लापरवाही

— Serious negligence or gross carelessness.

डॉक्टर की गंभीर लापरवाही के कारण मरीज की जान चली गई। (Ḍôkṭar kī gambhīr laparvāhī ke kāraṇ marīz kī jān calī gaī. - The patient died due to the doctor's serious negligence.)

काम में लापरवाही

— Negligence in work or carelessness at work.

काम में लापरवाही के लिए उन्हें चेतावनी दी गई। (Kām meṁ laparvāhī ke lie unheṁ cetāvanī dī gaī. - They were warned for negligence in work.)

थोड़ी सी लापरवाही

— A little bit of negligence or slight carelessness.

थोड़ी सी लापरवाही से बड़ा नुकसान हो सकता है। (Thoṛī sī laparvāhī se baṛā nuksan ho saktā hai. - A little negligence can cause great damage.)

लापरवाही का अंजाम

— The consequence or outcome of negligence.

हमें लापरवाही का अंजाम भुगतना पड़ा। (Hameṁ laparvāhī kā añjām bhugatnā paṛā. - We had to face the consequence of negligence.)

सुरक्षा में लापरवाही

— Negligence in safety or safety carelessness.

सुरक्षा में लापरवाही जानलेवा हो सकती है। (Surakṣā meṁ laparvāhī jānalevā ho saktī hai. - Negligence in safety can be fatal.)

लापरवाही के लिए जिम्मेदार

— Responsible for negligence.

वह इस लापरवाही के लिए जिम्मेदार है। (Vah is laparvāhī ke lie zimmedār hai. - He is responsible for this negligence.)

Often Confused With

लापरवाही vs असावधानी (asāvdhānī)

'लापरवाही' often implies a more significant lack of care with potentially graver consequences, whereas 'असावधानी' can refer to a more minor or momentary lapse in attention.

लापरवाही vs लापरवाह (lāparvāh)

'लापरवाही' is a noun meaning negligence, while 'लापरवाह' is an adjective meaning negligent or careless. They are closely related but used differently grammatically.

लापरवाही vs उपेक्षा (upekṣā)

'उपेक्षा' often suggests a more intentional disregard or neglect, whereas 'लापरवाही' can be a more passive failure to be attentive.

Idioms & Expressions

"आँखें मूंद लेना"

— To close one's eyes (figuratively); to ignore or be willfully blind to something, often due to negligence or deliberate disregard.

उन्होंने समस्या की ओर आँखें मूंद लीं, जो उनकी लापरवाही को दर्शाता है। (Unhone samasyā kī or āṁkheṁ mūṁd līṁ, jo unkī laparvāhī ko darśātā hai. - They closed their eyes to the problem, which shows their negligence.)

Informal/Figurative
"कान पर जूँ न रेंगना"

— Not to be bothered at all, to remain indifferent, often implying a profound lack of concern or negligence.

इतने बड़े नुकसान के बावजूद, उसके कान पर जूँ तक न रेंगी, यह उसकी लापरवाही का सबूत था। (Itne baṛe nuksan ke bāvajūd, usake kān par jūṁ tak na reṅgī, yah usakī laparvāhī kā sabūt thā. - Despite such a big loss, not even a louse moved on his ear, which was proof of his negligence.)

Informal/Figurative
"सिर पर कफ़न बाँधना"

— To tie a shroud on one's head; to be ready to die or to take extreme risks, often in contrast to recklessness or negligence.

यह लापरवाही नहीं, बल्कि साहस का काम था। (Yah laparvāhī nahīṁ, balki sāhas kā kām thā. - This was not negligence, but an act of courage.)

Figurative
"हाथ पर हाथ धरे बैठना"

— To sit with hands on hands; to do nothing, to be idle, often implying negligence when action is required.

समस्या को हल करने के बजाय, वे हाथ पर हाथ धरे बैठे रहे, यह उनकी लापरवाही थी। (Samasyā ko hal karane ke bajāy, ve hāth par hāth dhare baiṭhe rahe, yah unkī laparvāhī thī. - Instead of solving the problem, they sat idle, which was their negligence.)

Informal/Figurative
"आँखें चुराना"

— To avoid someone's gaze; to feel ashamed or guilty, often after an act of negligence.

अपनी लापरवाही के बाद, वह मुझसे आँखें चुरा रहा था। (Apnī laparvāhī ke bād, vah mujhse āṁkheṁ curā rahā thā. - After his negligence, he was avoiding my gaze.)

Informal/Figurative
"अंधाधुंध चलाना"

— To drive recklessly or blindly, a direct manifestation of negligence.

अंधाधुंध गाड़ी चलाना लापरवाही है। (Andhādhundh gāṛī calānā laparvāhī hai. - Driving recklessly is negligence.)

Informal/Descriptive
"पानी में आग लगाना"

— To do the impossible; not directly related to negligence, but can be used to contrast with extreme carelessness.

यह लापरवाही का कार्य नहीं था, बल्कि एक असंभव कार्य को संभव बनाने का प्रयास था। (Yah laparvāhī kā kārya nahīṁ thā, balki ek asambhav kārya ko sambhav banāne kā prayās thā. - This was not an act of negligence, but an attempt to make the impossible possible.)

Figurative
"जान हथेली पर रखना"

— To put one's life in one's hands; to take great risks, the opposite of being negligent about safety.

सुरक्षा नियमों की लापरवाही करके जान हथेली पर रखना मूर्खता है। (Surakṣā niyamoṁ kī laparvāhī karke jān hathelī par rakhnā mūrkhatā hai. - Putting one's life at risk by neglecting safety rules is foolishness.)

Figurative
"नाक रगड़ना"

— To rub one's nose (figuratively); to beg or plead humbly, often after causing trouble through negligence.

अपनी लापरवाही के लिए उसने बहुत नाक रगड़ी। (Apnī laparvāhī ke lie usane bahut nāk ragaṛī. - He begged a lot for his negligence.)

Informal/Figurative
"फूंक-फूंक कर कदम रखना"

— To step carefully, to be very cautious, the direct opposite of negligence.

जहां लापरवाही का खतरा हो, वहां फूंक-फूंक कर कदम रखना चाहिए। (Jahāṁ laparvāhī kā khatrā ho, vahāṁ phūṅk-phūṅk kar kadam rakhnā cāhie. - Where there is a risk of negligence, one should step very carefully.)

Figurative

Easily Confused

लापरवाही vs असावधानी

Both words relate to a lack of care or attention.

'लापरवाही' generally implies a more serious or prolonged lack of care with significant potential consequences. 'असावधानी' can be a milder, more transient lapse in attention, like forgetting something momentarily.

मेरी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> से चाबियाँ खो गईं। (My negligence caused the keys to be lost.) vs. थोड़ी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>असावधानी</mark> से कप गिर गया। (Due to a little carelessness, the cup fell.)

लापरवाही vs लापरवाह

They share the same root and concept of not caring.

'लापरवाही' is a noun (negligence, carelessness). 'लापरवाह' is an adjective (negligent, careless), describing a person or an act. You can't say 'यह लापरवाही है' (This is negligence) if you mean 'He is negligent' (वह लापरवाह है).

यह मेरी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> थी। (This was my negligence.) vs. वह <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाह</mark> है। (He is negligent.)

लापरवाही vs उपेक्षा

Both can involve a failure to provide due care.

'उपेक्षा' often implies a more active and conscious decision to ignore or disregard something or someone, a form of neglect. 'लापरवाही' can be more about a passive lack of attention or diligence, even if not intentionally malicious.

बच्चों की <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>उपेक्षा</mark> एक गंभीर अपराध है। (Neglecting children is a serious crime.) vs. उसकी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> से खाना जल गया। (The food got burnt due to his carelessness.)

लापरवाही vs बेपरवाही

Very similar meanings, often used interchangeably.

'बेपरवाही' can sometimes imply a more pronounced or defiant recklessness, a bolder form of not caring. 'लापरवाही' is a more general term for negligence. The distinction is subtle and context-dependent.

उसकी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>बेपरवाही</mark> ने सबको खतरे में डाला। (His recklessness put everyone in danger.) vs. यह <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> से हुआ। (This happened due to negligence.)

लापरवाही vs ग़ैर-जिम्मेदारी

Both relate to a failure to act appropriately.

'ग़ैर-जिम्मेदारी' (irresponsibility) is a broader term referring to a general lack of accountability or duty. 'लापरवाही' is a specific type of action or state that results from irresponsibility, characterized by a lack of care and attention.

उसकी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>ग़ैर-जिम्मेदारी</mark> के कारण वह काम पूरा नहीं कर पाया। (Due to his irresponsibility, he couldn't complete the work.) vs. उसने काम में <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> की। (He was negligent in his work.)

Sentence Patterns

A1

यह मेरी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> है।

यह मेरी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> है।

A1

<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> मत करो।

गाड़ी चलाते समय <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> मत करो।

A2

X की <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> के कारण Y हुआ।

उसकी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> के कारण दुर्घटना हुई।

A2

काम में <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark>।

काम में <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark>।

B1

यह एक <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> भरा काम था।

यह एक <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> भरा काम था।

B1

हमें <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> नहीं बरतनी चाहिए।

हमें अपने स्वास्थ्य के प्रति <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> नहीं बरतनी चाहिए।

B2

X की <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> के लिए Y को दोषी ठहराया गया।

अदालत ने <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> के लिए उसे दोषी ठहराया।

C1

यह <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> न केवल X थी, बल्कि Y भी थी।

यह <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> केवल व्यक्तिगत नहीं, बल्कि प्रणालीगत थी।

Word Family

Nouns

लापरवाही

Adjectives

लापरवाह

Related

सावधानी (sāvdhānī - caution)
जिम्मेदारी (zimmedārī - responsibility)
सतर्कता (satarktā - vigilance)
असावधानी (asāvdhānī - carelessness)
बेपरवाही (beparvāhī - recklessness)

How to Use It

frequency

Common

Common Mistakes
  • Using 'लापरवाही' as an adjective. Use 'लापरवाह' as an adjective.

    Learners often confuse the noun 'लापरवाही' (negligence) with the adjective 'लापरवाह' (negligent). For example, saying 'यह लापरवाही व्यक्ति है' is incorrect. The correct sentence would be 'यह <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाह</mark> व्यक्ति है।' (This is a negligent person.)

  • Confusing 'लापरवाही' with simple forgetfulness. Recognize that 'लापरवाही' implies a more significant lack of care.

    'लापरवाही' implies a serious lack of attention that can lead to harm or negative outcomes. Simple forgetfulness, like forgetting a small item, is different. For example, forgetting to lock the door is 'लापरवाही', but forgetting to buy milk might just be forgetfulness.

  • Incorrectly forming plural. Use 'लापरवाहियाँ' for multiple instances of negligence.

    While 'लापरवाही' is often treated as uncountable, specific instances can be pluralized as 'लापरवाहियाँ'. For example, 'उसने कई <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाहियाँ</mark> कीं।' (He committed several acts of negligence.)

  • Not distinguishing between 'लापरवाही' and 'उपेक्षा'. Understand that 'उपेक्षा' often implies deliberate disregard.

    'लापरवाही' can be unintentional lack of attention, while 'उपेक्षा' often suggests a more conscious decision to ignore or neglect something or someone, implying a willful disregard.

  • Using 'लापरवाही' when 'बेपरवाही' might be more appropriate for recklessness. Consider the nuance between general negligence and pronounced recklessness.

    While often interchangeable, 'बेपरवाही' can sometimes carry a stronger connotation of bold, defiant recklessness, whereas 'लापरवाही' is a more general term for negligence. For extreme disregard for safety, 'बेपरवाही' might be preferred.

Tips

Mastering the Stress

The word 'लापरवाही' has its main stress on the second syllable: la-par-VAH-ee. Practicing saying it aloud with this emphasis will make it sound more natural and help native speakers understand you better. Incorrect stress can sometimes alter the perceived meaning.

Connecting to Antonyms

To better understand 'लापरवाही', learn its antonyms like 'सावधानी' (caution) and 'जिम्मेदारी' (responsibility). Thinking about the opposite concepts can solidify the meaning of the word itself.

Noun vs. Adjective

Remember that 'लापरवाही' is a noun. If you want to describe someone as negligent, use the adjective 'लापरवाह'. For example, 'उसकी लापरवाही' (his negligence) vs. 'वह लापरवाह' (he is negligent).

Visual Associations

Create a mental image for 'लापरवाही'. Picture someone being completely oblivious to danger, perhaps ignoring a falling object or a fire. This vivid image can help you recall the meaning of the word instantly.

Societal Impact

In many cultures, including Indian, 'लापरवाही' is viewed very negatively due to its potential to cause harm and disrupt order. Understanding this cultural weight can help you appreciate why the word is used and the seriousness it carries.

Sentence Creation

Write at least three sentences using 'लापरवाही' in different contexts: one about a personal mistake, one about a professional error, and one about a public safety issue. This active recall reinforces learning.

Exploring Similar Terms

Familiarize yourself with synonyms like 'असावधानी' and 'बेपरवाही'. Understanding their subtle differences will allow you to choose the most precise word for any given situation.

Real-World Scenarios

Think about real-life situations where someone might exhibit 'लापरवाही'. Discussing these scenarios with a language partner or even just thinking them through can make the word more tangible.

Regular Revision

Like any new vocabulary, regular review is essential. Revisit this word and its related concepts periodically to ensure it stays fresh in your memory and can be recalled effortlessly when needed.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine someone named 'Larry' who is very LAZy and doesn't care about anything. His 'LA-PAR-VAH-ee' (like Larry's Parva-hee) causes problems. You can picture Larry being so lazy that he doesn't even bother to check if his car brakes work, leading to a crash.

Visual Association

Picture a person with their eyes closed, hands in their pockets, while a ball is rolling towards them, or a building is about to collapse. This visual represents a complete lack of attention and care, embodying 'लापरवाही'.

Word Web

Carelessness Negligence Inattention Recklessness Indifference Mistake Accident Consequence Responsibility Caution

Challenge

Try to use 'लापरवाही' in three different sentences describing common mistakes people make in daily life, focusing on the cause-and-effect relationship.

Word Origin

The word 'लापरवाही' (laparvāhī) is derived from the Persian words 'lā' (لا - not) and 'parvāh' (پروه - care, concern, attention). Thus, literally, it means 'lack of care' or 'lack of concern'.

Original meaning: Absence of care or concern.

Indo-Iranian (Persian origin, adopted into Hindi)

Cultural Context

The term 'लापरवाही' can be sensitive as it implies blame and can lead to criticism or punishment. It should be used judiciously, especially when discussing personal mistakes or failures.

While English has words like 'negligence', 'carelessness', and 'inattention', the Hindi word 'लापरवाही' often carries a weight that can feel more encompassing in certain contexts, touching upon a broader sense of responsibility and its absence.

In literature and films, characters exhibiting 'लापरवाही' are often portrayed as flawed individuals whose actions lead to dramatic plot developments or tragic outcomes. Legal cases involving accidents or malpractice frequently use 'लापरवाही' to define the extent of fault and liability. Public service announcements often warn against 'लापरवाही' in areas like road safety, health, and child care.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Traffic accidents

  • आपकी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> के कारण दुर्घटना हुई।
  • ड्राइविंग में <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> नहीं करनी चाहिए।
  • यह <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> भरा काम था।

Workplace errors

  • काम में <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> के लिए चेतावनी।
  • कर्मचारी की <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> के कारण नुकसान।
  • यह <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> स्वीकार्य नहीं है।

Health and medicine

  • दवा लेने में <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> न करें।
  • डॉक्टर की <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> के गंभीर परिणाम।
  • स्वास्थ्य के प्रति <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark>।

General mistakes

  • यह मेरी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> थी।
  • उसकी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> के कारण सब बिगड़ गया।
  • थोड़ी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> से बड़ा नुकसान हो सकता है।

Legal and official matters

  • <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> के लिए दोषी ठहराया गया।
  • प्रशासनिक <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> की जाँच हो रही है।
  • सुरक्षा <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> के आरोप।

Conversation Starters

"क्या आपने कभी किसी की लापरवाही के कारण परेशानी का अनुभव किया है?"

"आपके अनुसार, लापरवाही और असावधानी में क्या अंतर है?"

"किन परिस्थितियों में लापरवाही को गंभीरता से लिया जाना चाहिए?"

"क्या आपको लगता है कि आज के समाज में लापरवाही बढ़ रही है?"

"हम अपनी रोज़मर्रा की ज़िंदगी में लापरवाही से कैसे बच सकते हैं?"

Journal Prompts

उस घटना के बारे में लिखें जब आपकी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> के कारण कुछ गलत हुआ। आपने क्या सीखा?

एक ऐसी स्थिति का वर्णन करें जहाँ किसी और की <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> ने आपको प्रभावित किया हो।

सोचें कि 'जिम्मेदारी' और '<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark>' के बीच का अंतर क्या है और यह आपके जीवन में कैसे लागू होता है।

एक कहानी लिखें जिसमें एक पात्र अपनी <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> को दूर करने के लिए कदम उठाता है।

आप यह कैसे सुनिश्चित कर सकते हैं कि आप काम पर या निजी जीवन में <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>लापरवाही</mark> न करें?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'लापरवाही' (laparvāhī) is a noun that means negligence or carelessness. 'लापरवाह' (lāparvāh) is an adjective that describes someone or something as negligent or careless. For example, 'उसकी लापरवाही के कारण दुर्घटना हुई।' (His negligence caused an accident.) Here, 'लापरवाही' is the noun. If you say 'वह लापरवाह है।' (He is negligent.), 'लापरवाह' is the adjective describing him.

While 'लापरवाही' can be used for minor mistakes, it often implies a more significant lack of care or attention that could lead to undesirable consequences. For very minor, momentary lapses, words like 'असावधानी' (asāvdhānī - carelessness) might be more appropriate. However, context is key. If a minor mistake stems from a general pattern of not being careful, 'लापरवाही' can still be used.

The pronunciation is lah-per-VAH-hee. The stress is on the second syllable, 'VAH'. Ensure you pronounce the 'l', 'p', and aspirated 'h' clearly. The 'a' sounds like in 'father'.

Common consequences include accidents (traffic, industrial), damage to property, financial loss, injury or harm to oneself or others, legal penalties, and damage to reputation. The severity of the consequence often reflects the degree of 'लापरवाही'.

Yes, 'लापरवाही' is almost always used in a negative context. It describes a failure to exercise due care, which is generally considered undesirable and can lead to problems. The opposite concepts are caution, responsibility, and diligence.

Yes, it can be. While often it implies an unintentional lapse, 'जानबूझकर लापरवाही' (jānbūjhkar laparvāhī) refers to deliberate negligence or recklessness, where someone knowingly disregards safety or duties.

Both words are very similar and often used interchangeably, meaning carelessness or recklessness. 'बेपरवाही' (beparvāhī) can sometimes suggest a more pronounced or defiant form of not caring or a bolder kind of recklessness, while 'लापरवाही' is a more general term for negligence. The distinction is subtle and context-dependent.

The adjective form is 'लापरवाह' (lāparvāh). For example, 'वह एक लापरवाह व्यक्ति है।' (He is a negligent person.) The noun is 'लापरवाही' (laparvāhī - negligence).

Common phrases include: 'लापरवाही बरतना' (to be negligent), 'लापरवाही के कारण' (due to negligence), 'गंभीर लापरवाही' (serious negligence), and 'काम में लापरवाही' (negligence in work).

There isn't a direct verb form like 'to neglect' that perfectly translates 'लापरवाही'. Instead, verbs like 'बरतना' (baratnā - to use, to exhibit) are used with 'लापरवाही' to form phrases like 'लापरवाही बरतना' (to be negligent). Other verbs like 'करना' (karnā - to do) can also be used in specific contexts, e.g., 'उसने लापरवाही की' (He was negligent / He did negligence).

Test Yourself 10 questions

/ 10 correct

Perfect score!

Was this helpful?

Comments (0)

Login to Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!