Neglecting
/nɪˈɡlektɪŋ/
Definitions
To fail to care for properly; to disregard.
/nɪˈɡlektɪŋ/
Failing to give someone or something the care or attention needed.
He was neglecting his health by not exercising.
💡 Simply: Think of it like ignoring a friend's text messages for weeks. You're neglecting to respond, just like forgetting to feed your pet. It means leaving something uncared for or unattended.
👶 For kids: Not taking care of something, like forgetting to water your plant.
More Examples
The company was accused of neglecting safety regulations.
She felt that she had been neglecting her friends.
How It's Used
"Parents neglecting their children's emotional needs can lead to developmental problems."
"Neglecting a toothache can lead to serious dental issues."
"The manager was neglecting his responsibilities."
Idioms & expressions
neglect to do something
To fail to do something; to omit or leave undone.
"He neglected to lock the door before leaving."
From Middle English *neglecten*, from Old French *negligier* (13th c.), from Latin *neglegere* ('to disregard, ignore'), from *nec* ('not') + *legere* ('to pick up, gather').
Historically, the word's usage has primarily concerned moral or legal dereliction of duty or care, as seen in literature and legal documents from the 16th century onwards.
Memory tip
Imagine you *neglect* a plant, and it *neglects* to grow, ultimately dying.