What is Remiss: Introduction

Imagine leaving a candle burning as you drift to sleep or missing an important deadline due to oversight; these moments encapsulate the essence of being “remiss.” To be remiss is to be neglectful, often due to a lapse in attention or responsibility. In a world that values productivity and mindfulness, a remiss attitude can lead to missed opportunities or unintended consequences. Whether in professional commitments or personal obligations, understanding remissness reminds us of the impact of small omissions that can ripple through larger outcomes.

Origin and History of the Word Remiss

The word “remiss” originates from the Latin term “remissus,” meaning “slackened” or “relaxed.” Derived from “remittere” (to send back or let go), it entered the English language in the late 14th century. Initially used to describe actions that lacked vigor or strictness, “remiss” evolved to imply negligence or an insufficient sense of responsibility. Over time, its meaning shifted towards a focus on neglect, especially when duties are overlooked, a concept that resonates with both historical and contemporary ideas about accountability.

Meaning and Definition of Remiss

Remiss (adjective):

1. Lacking care or attention to duty; negligent
2. Failing to fulfill one’s responsibilities or obligations
3. (Archaic) Showing a lack of energy or rigor; slack

Usage note: “Remiss” is often used in contexts where an oversight or failure in responsibility can lead to negative outcomes.

How to Pronounce Remiss

ruh-MISS

How to Remember Remiss: Memory Tips

To remember “remiss,” think of “re-” (again) and “miss”—as in, missing the mark again or repeatedly failing in responsibility. You might also imagine being “remiss” as letting something important slip through your fingers. Picture a person forgetting a crucial deadline, as being remiss often involves a small oversight with potentially large consequences.

Remiss in a Sentence: Examples and Usage

1. Professional: The manager was remiss in overseeing the project, leading to costly delays.
2. Personal: I would be remiss if I didn’t thank everyone who supported me during the project.
3. Legal: The court found the company remiss in its duty to provide a safe work environment.
4. Historical: Many believe the officials were remiss in failing to anticipate the crisis.
5. Everyday: She was remiss in watering her plants, which soon began to wilt.
6. Academic: The professor was remiss in grading the papers on time, frustrating the students.

Difficulty Level of Using Remiss

Intermediate:

• Common in formal writing and speech
• Often requires an understanding of responsibility and obligation
• Usage is straightforward once the meaning is understood

Remiss Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Words

Modern Usage of Remiss in Contemporary Context

Today, “remiss” is widely used in both professional and personal settings to underscore the importance of diligence and responsibility. In workplaces, it often describes lapses in attention to tasks or duties, such as missing deadlines or failing to communicate effectively. In legal and political contexts, being remiss can imply a failure to uphold essential duties, particularly when oversight affects others negatively. On a personal level, “remiss” also appears frequently in expressions of gratitude or acknowledgment, such as, “I would be remiss if I didn’t thank…” The term reflects the value society places on accountability, especially in leadership and public service, where oversight can lead to significant consequences.