Irregardless: Is it Really a Word? | Should I use Regardless Instead?

Irregardless is the pet peeve of many a native English speaker who cares about grammar and word usage! What’s the issue with it and should you just use regardless instead? Keep on reading to find out all the details you need to know!

Irregardless

The main problem with this word is that it’s a double negative (with the beginning/prefix and the ending/suffix). This leads many people to even question whether or not it’s a word.

Most agree that it’s a word but that it should only be used in informal settings. Most dictionaries classify it as “non-standard,” which means not correct. Essentially, people use this word but they shouldn’t.

A good rule of thumb is to use regardless and you’ll never be incorrect. Plus, you won’t annoy the people who are convinced that irregardless isn’t a word!

Is it really so bad to use irregardless?

A lot of people use irregardless in writing and speaking. Is it really so bad?

Well, there is certainly power in numbers! However, I personally cringe every single time I hear it or read it. Of course, take my advice with a grain of salt but I will never use it. And don’t recommend that you do as well! It’s easy to use regardless instead.

Regardless: Use this instead!

An adverb that means without paying attention to the present situation, despite the circumstances.

Examples: 

• Regardless of what you think, I’m still going to do it.
• She went ahead with her plans regardless.
• The weather looked terrible, but they went ahead with the hike regardless.
• Some people display no Covid-19 symptoms, regardless of how many times they test positive.
• The new prison project went ahead, regardless of the opposition from the city.

Want to Find Out More?

You can find hundreds of confusing English words and word pairs in this book: Most Confusing Words in English Explained. Pick up a copy and ace your next TOEFL, TOEIC, or IELTS exam! Find out everything you need to know about it right here:

More Confusing English Words

If you’re looking for some help with more easily confused English words, then have a look right here:

already or all ready

effect or affect

pore vs poor vs pour

after vs later

averse vs adverse

there, their, they’re 

Irregardless vs Regardless: Join the Conversation

Do you have any thoughts or opinions about using irregardless instead of regardless? Not a big deal? The worst English grammar mistake you could make? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you.

Last update on 2022-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API