Regardless vs. Irregardless — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on October 5, 2023
"Regardless" means without regard or consideration. "Irregardless," often considered incorrect, means the same but includes an unnecessary prefix "ir-." Use "regardless" for formal writing.
Difference Between Regardless and Irregardless
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Regardless" and "irregardless" both convey a sense of dismissing something in the process of making a point or argument. "Regardless" is widely accepted in all English-speaking areas and is used in both spoken and written language. "Irregardless," while understood in casual conversation, is nonstandard.
"Regardless" is derived from "regard" and the suffix "-less," literally meaning "without regard." It is used to indicate that something will happen or is true in spite of any other facts or conditions. "Irregardless," merging "irrespective" and "regardless," essentially conveys the same meaning but is often criticized in formal writing circles.
"Regardless" allows for the construction of sentences where an objection or contrasting point is dismissed or deemed irrelevant to the speaker’s argument. On the other hand, "irregardless," although colloquially popular, is frowned upon in academic and professional settings because of its reputation as grammatically incorrect.
Both "regardless" and "irregardless" can be used to start a sentence or clause and are typically used to introduce a statement that contrasts with a preceding statement. While "regardless" is universally accepted, "irregardless" might be perceived as uneducated or informal, even though it's gaining acceptance.
"Irregardless" has gradually made its way into dictionaries due to its frequent use in colloquial American English. However, it is often recommended, even by dictionaries, to use "regardless" especially in formal and professional communication as it is less likely to attract criticism or distraction.
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Comparison Chart
Formality
Accepted
Generally not accepted
Meaning
Without regard
Without regard
Usage in Writing
Standard
Nonstandard
Prefix and Suffix
“Re-“ and “-less”
Unnecessary “ir-“ prefix
Etymology
Regard + -less
Irrespective + regardless
Compare with Definitions
Regardless
Acting without heed or consideration.
Regardless of the risk, he went back into the burning building.
Irregardless
In spite of everything.
He will proceed, irregardless of the facts.
Regardless
Not affected or altered by.
The plants grew regardless of the lack of water.
Irregardless
Without considering; anyway.
She went to the concert irregardless of the consequences.
Regardless
Whatever the circumstances.
Regardless of the outcome, we will continue our work.
Irregardless
Anyway, nonetheless.
Irregardless of your feelings, the policy will be implemented.
Regardless
Without showing concern.
He walked out of the room, regardless of her tears.
Irregardless
Without respect to or attention to.
She continued, irregardless of the warnings.
Regardless
In spite of everything; anyway
Continues to work regardless.
Irregardless
Irregardless is a word sometimes used in place of regardless or irrespective, which has caused controversy since the early twentieth century, though the word appeared in print as early as 1795.
Regardless
Heedless; unmindful.
Irregardless
Regardless.
Regardless
Having no regard; heedless; careless.
Irregardless
Irrespective, regardless.
Regardless
Despite everything; despite the situation
He did it, regardless.
Irregardless
Regardless; a combination of irrespective and regardless sometimes used humorously
Regardless
Without attention to warnings or indications of bad consequences.
Tatiana knew the meat had passed its expiry date, but she ate it regardless.
Regardless
(proscribed) regardless of; paying no attention to
Tatiana ate the cauliflower regardless its colour.
Regardless
Having no regard; heedless; careless; as, regardless of life, consequences, dignity.
Regardless of the bliss wherein he sat.
Regardless
Not regarded; slighted.
Regardless
(usually followed by `of') without due thought or consideration;
Careless of the consequences
The proverbial grasshopper--thoughtless of tomorrow
Crushing the blooms with regardless tread
Regardless
In spite of everything; without regard to drawbacks;
He carried on regardless of the difficulties
Regardless
In spite of.
She pursued her dreams, regardless of her age.
Common Curiosities
Is "irregardless" in the dictionary?
Yes, it is in some dictionaries due to its colloquial use.
Is "irregardless" considered standard English?
No, "irregardless" is generally considered nonstandard.
Is "regardless" grammatically correct?
Yes, "regardless" is grammatically correct.
Is the meaning of "regardless" and "irregardless" the same?
Yes, they convey similar meanings despite different acceptability.
Can "regardless" be used to start a sentence?
Yes, "regardless" can start a sentence or clause.
Can "irregardless" be used in casual conversation?
Yes, "irregardless" is often used in casual American English.
What is a synonym for "regardless"?
A synonym for "regardless" is "irrespective."
Which is more formal: "regardless" or "irregardless"?
"Regardless" is considered more formal.
Can "irregardless" be used in formal writing?
It is recommended to use "regardless" in formal writing.
Is "irregardless" used globally?
Its use is most common in North American English.
Can "regardless" and "irregardless" be used interchangeably?
While similar, their interchangeability depends on formality.
Why is "irregardless" criticized?
It’s criticized for the redundancy of its prefix “ir-."
Is "irregardless" evolving into acceptance?
Some dictionaries recognize it due to its common usage.
When was "irregardless" first used?
"Irregardless" was first recorded in the early 20th century.
Are "regardless" and "irregardless" prepositions?
No, they are typically used as adverbs.
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
