How Do You Spell IRREGARDLESS?

Pronunciation: [ɪɹɪɡˈɑːdləs] (IPA)

"Irregardless" is a controversial word that has been debated for years due to its uncommon spelling. Phonetically, the word is pronounced /ɪrɪˈɡɑːrdlɪs/, which means "regardless" or "without regard." Despite its prevalence in everyday speech, "irregardless" is considered by many to be non-standard English and should be avoided in formal writing. While the double negative prefix "ir-" is unnecessary and redundant, it is important to understand the correct spelling and pronunciation when attempting to communicate effectively in written or verbal communication.

IRREGARDLESS Meaning and Definition

1. Irregardless is an English adverb that is widely used in both formal and informal contexts. It is formed by combining the negating prefix "ir-" with the word "regardless". Despite being a nonstandard word, its usage has been prevalent for over a century.

   The meaning of irregardless is similar to "regardless" or "without regard". It indicates a lack of consideration or attention to something, emphasizing the speaker's indifference or disregard for a particular factor or circumstance. It is often used to introduce a contrasting statement or action, indicating that the speaker's thoughts or actions are not influenced by a certain aspect.

   However, it is important to note that "irregardless" is considered nonstandard English and its use is often discouraged by language purists. The preferred and accepted form is "regardless". Critics argue that since "regardless" already expresses the idea of not taking something into account, adding the negating prefix "ir-" is redundant. Despite this criticism, the word has persisted in popular usage and can still be encountered in informal speech and writing.

   In summary, irregardless is an informal adverb that means "without regard" or "despite something". Although its usage is controversial and not deemed correct in standard English, it continues to be employed by many speakers and writers.

Top Common Misspellings for IRREGARDLESS *

• irreguardless 37.5%
• irrigardless 25%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for IRREGARDLESS

• iregardless
• irregardles
• irregaurdless
• irregarless
• irregradless

Etymology of IRREGARDLESS

The word "irregardless" is considered a colloquial or nonstandard variation of the word "regardless". Its etymology is simply a blend of "ir-" (a prefix indicating negation or absence) and "regardless". Although the double negative in "irregardless" is generally discouraged in formal or standard English, it has been used in various spoken dialects throughout history. The word likely emerged from a combination of influences such as regional dialects, colloquial speech, and language evolution.

Idioms with the word IRREGARDLESS

• irregardless of sth The idiom "irregardless of something" means to not take something into consideration or to disregard something completely, regardless of its relevance or importance. It is often used to emphasize the disregard or lack of consideration for a particular factor. However, it is important to note that "irregardless" is considered nonstandard or incorrect grammar, and the proper word to use in its place is "regardless."