Negligent vs. Careless — What's the Difference?

Given to or characterized by neglect, especially habitual neglect

Taking insufficient care; negligent

(Law) Acting with or done through negligence.

Marked by or resulting from lack of forethought or thoroughness

Careless or inattentive.

Showing a lack of consideration

(legal) Culpable due to negligence.

Unconcerned or indifferent; heedless

Apt to neglect; customarily neglectful; characterized by negligence; careless; heedless; culpably careless; showing lack of attention; as, disposed in negligent order.

Unstudied or effortless

Characterized by neglect and undue lack of concern;

Exhibiting a disposition that is free from cares; cheerful

Marked by insufficient care or attention;

Not concerned or worried (about).

Not giving sufficient attention or thought, especially concerning the avoidance of harm or mistakes.

(archaic) Free from care; unworried, without anxiety.

Free from care or anxiety. hence, cheerful; light-hearted.

Having no care; not taking ordinary or proper care; negligent; unconcerned; heedless; inattentive; unmindful; regardless.

Without thought or purpose; without due care; without attention to rule or system; unstudied; inconsiderate; spontaneous; rash; as, a careless throw; a careless expression.

Not receiving care; uncared for.

Marked by lack of attention or consideration or forethought or thoroughness; not careful;

Effortless and unstudied;

(usually followed by `of') without due thought or consideration;

Showing an unthinking lack of consideration;