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YOUR VOCABULARY, ONE WORD AT A TIME

Feckless

Adjective

IPA /ˈfɛkləs/

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Meaning in plain English

Lacking initiative, strength of character, or effectiveness; weak and irresponsible.

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Pronunciation

Feckless/ˈfɛkləs/

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  1. A duty needs attention

  2. It is neglected without care

Feckless behaviour is ineffective and irresponsible.

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  1. The project failed under feckless leadership that couldn’t make decisive choices.
  2. She grew frustrated with his feckless attitude toward both work and relationships.

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The project failed under ________ leadership that couldn’t make decisive choices.
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Feckless — Lacking initiative, strength of character, or effectiveness; weak and irresponsible.

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Lacking initiative, strength of character, or effectiveness; weak and irresponsible.

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Word origin

From Scots feckless — feck (“effect, value, efficiency”) + -less (“without”).

Did you know?

Feckless emphasises ineffectiveness or irresponsibility. Reckless emphasises disregard for possible danger or consequences.

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Feckless

/ˈfɛkləs/ (Adjective)

“Disapproving: feckless criticises someone's irresponsibility or ineffectiveness. It is stronger than saying they made a mistake.”

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