What's the Difference Between 'Irregardless' and 'Regardless'?
In this blog post we look at when to use irregardless and when to use regardless.
'Irregardless' or 'Regardless'?
The use of the word irregardless in the English language is controversial due to its double negative. Does it have the same or opposite meaning as regardless? In this post we explore the difference between the two words.
Regardless is a standard word that means "without regard to the circumstances or consequences." It is commonly used to express that something will happen or be done despite any obstacles or challenges that may exist.
For example, "I am going to finish this project, regardless of how difficult it may be."
Irregardless, on the other hand, is a non-standard word that is considered to be a double negative. It is a combination of the prefix -irr and the word "regardless," and is often used incorrectly in place of "regardless."
It is considered non-standard because it is redundant to say "irregardless" as the prefix "ir-" already carries the meaning of "not" or "without." Therefore, it is incorrect to use "irregardless" as it is equivalent to saying "not regardless."
Regardless of this fact, the word “irregardless” is listed in dictionaries and thesauruses as having the same meaning as “regardless”, even though it should technically be a double negative.
It is rare to see “irregardless” used in written text. It is used more commonly in spoken English although it is considered to be non-standard, meaning it does not follow the conventional rules of English grammar. For most people it is better to use the word “regardless” instead.
In summary, “regardless” is the standard and correct word to use when you want to express that something will happen or be done without regard to the circumstances or consequences.
"Irregardless" is considered non-standard and redundant as it is a double negative. It is always better to use the standard word regardless, and avoid using "irregardless" in formal writing or speech.
Here are some sentences that illustrate the difference between "irregardless" and "regardless":
"I am going to the party irregardless of whether or not my friends are coming."
This sentence is incorrect because "irregardless" is a double negative and is considered non-standard. The correct way to phrase this sentence would be:
"I am going to the party regardless of whether or not my friends are coming."
"The company will continue to operate irregardless of the economic downturn."
This sentence is also incorrect because "irregardless" is non-standard and redundant. The correct way to phrase this sentence would be:
"The company will continue to operate regardless of the economic downturn."
"She will graduate from college irregardless of the challenges she faced"
This sentence is wrong, since "irregardless" is non-standard and redundant. The correct way to phrase this sentence would be:
"She will graduate from college regardless of the challenges she faced."
In all the above examples, "irregardless" is used incorrectly and should be replaced with "regardless" as it's the standard word and conveys the same meaning, but with more precise and formal language.
Examples of Regardless in a Sentence
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"I will continue to work on this project regardless of how long it takes."
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"He will take the job regardless of the salary offered."
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"She will go to the concert regardless of the weather."
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"They will finish the race regardless of the obstacles they encounter."
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"The company will continue to innovate regardless of the competition."
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"I will stand by my decision regardless of the consequences."
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"He will pursue his dreams regardless of the challenges he faces."
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"She will speak her mind regardless of who is listening."
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"The team will work together regardless of their individual differences."
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"I will strive for excellence regardless of the expectations of others."
