The phrase "be careless with" is commonly misspelled due to confusion with the correct phonetic sounds. Properly pronounced as /bi ˈkɛrləs wɪθ/, the phrase requires careful attention to the diphthong "ea" in "careless" which sounds like the "e" in "bed" and "e" in "pet" combined. Additionally, the "th" sound at the end requires the tongue to be placed between the teeth and air to be released. Thus, it is important to be precise and not be "carless" with the spelling of "be careless with".
To be careless with something means to exhibit a lack of attention, responsibility, or concern towards it, often resulting in negative consequences. It refers to an attitude or behavior in which one fails to take sufficient care, caution, or consideration towards the object or subject in question. This lack of care can lead to accidents, mistakes, damage, or other unwanted outcomes.
When someone is careless with an object, they may handle it roughly or haphazardly, disregarding its fragility or value. This can result in breakage, wear and tear, or the item becoming unusable or ineffective. Carelessness with personal belongings or possessions may include leaving them unattended in vulnerable places, misplacing them, or not taking preventive measures to protect them from damage or theft.
Being careless with tasks, responsibilities, or obligations generally involves neglecting or overlooking important details, instructions, or deadlines. This can lead to errors, subpar performance, or failure to meet expectations or requirements. It can also display a lack of commitment, discipline, or professionalism in one's work or duties.
Additionally, being careless with personal relationships or interactions entails being indifferent or thoughtless in how one deals with others. This can involve disregarding their feelings, needs, or boundaries, or failing to consider the impact of one's words or actions on others. Being careless in this context may result in misunderstandings, conflict, hurt feelings, or damaged relationships.
In summary, being careless with something implies a lack of attention, caution, or concern, often leading to unwanted consequences, and can apply to objects, tasks, responsibilities, and personal relationships.