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!
Is irregardless a word?
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.
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Regardless vs Irregardless Examples
“Regardless” and “irregardless” are often used interchangeably, but it’s important to note that “irregardless” is considered non-standard English and is widely criticized by language experts. “Regardless” is the correct and accepted term to use. Here are some examples of correct usage using “regardless”:
Correct:
- Regardless of the weather, we’re going to have a picnic this weekend.
- She’s determined to finish the project regardless of the challenges she faces.
- Regardless of what you think, I believe this is the right decision.
Incorrect (using “irregardless”):
Irregardless of the time,we’ll meet tomorrow morning.He’s going to the party, irregardless of his busy schedule.I’ll attend the meeting, irregardless of the topic.
As you can see, “irregardless” is considered incorrect and unnecessary in standard English. It’s best to use “regardless” to convey the intended meaning.
Despite vs Regardless
“Despite” and “regardless” are both words that convey a sense of contrast or opposition. However, they are used slightly differently in sentences. Here’s how they are typically used:
Despite: “Despite” is a preposition and is used to introduce a contrast or unexpected situation. It’s often followed by a noun or a gerund (verb + -ing).
Examples:
- Despite the rain, we went for a walk in the park.
- She succeeded despite the challenges she faced.
- They had a great time despite the long journey.
Regardless: “Regardless” is an adverb and is used to indicate that something is being done without regard to certain circumstances. It’s often followed by the conjunction “of” and a noun or pronoun.
Examples:
- We’re going to the beach, regardless of the weather.
- He pursued his dreams regardless of what others thought.
- She continued her studies regardless of the obstacles.
In summary, “despite” is more about acknowledging and contrasting situations or conditions, while “regardless” emphasizes doing something without being affected by certain factors.
What is the Proper Use of Regardless?
“Regardless” is an adverb used to indicate that something is being done or considered without taking into account certain circumstances, conditions, or factors. It’s often used to emphasize that a particular action or decision is not influenced by a specific situation. Here are some examples of how to properly use “regardless”:
- She was determined to finish the race regardless of her fatigue.
- We’ll have the picnic regardless of the weather.
- He continued working regardless of the late hour.
- Regardless of the cost, we must find a solution to this problem.
- She decided to follow her passion regardless of the risks involved.
- They insisted on going on the hike regardless of the difficult terrain.
In each of these examples, “regardless” is used to indicate that the action or decision is being made without consideration of the mentioned circumstances or conditions. It emphasizes the determination to proceed despite potential challenges or obstacles.
More Confusing English Words
If you’re looking for some help with more easily confused English words, then have a look right here:
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 2025-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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