Improvident
Adjective
Definition: Not having or showing foresight; spendthrift or thoughtless.
Synonyms: Reckless, Wasteful, Imprudent
Antonyms: Frugal, Prudent, Careful
- His improvident spending habits left him in debt.
- The improvident decision to quit his job without having a backup plan was a mistake.
- Think of "improvident" as the opposite of "provident," which means careful and wise in managing resources.
Etymology:
The word "improvident" originated from the Latin word "improvidus," which combines the prefix "in-" (meaning "not") and the word "providēre" (meaning "to foresee").
Historical Usage:The term has been in use since the late 16th century, retaining its meaning of lacking foresight and financial prudence.
Related Idioms:
"Improvident spending"
Explanation:Refers to reckless or excessive spending without considering future consequences or savings.
Misconceptions:
Confusing "improvident" with "improvised."
Explanation:"Improvident" refers to a lack of foresight, while "improvised" refers to something created or performed spontaneously without prior planning or preparation. These words have distinct meanings and should not be confused.