regardless

Regardless is an adverb used to express that something happens or is true despite other circumstances or considerations. It can function as a sentence adverb, appearing at the start or in the middle of a clause for emphasis, as in, “Regardless, we proceeded with the plan.” It is also used with the preposition “of” to indicate that a factor is ignored, as in, “Regardless of the weather, the event continued.”

Etymology and form: Regardless originates from the noun/verb regard, meaning attention or consideration, combined with the suffix -less to convey “without regard.” The common construction “regardless of” signals that a given factor is not a constraint on the action or situation.

Usage notes: Regardless is typically standard in both formal and informal writing when used as described above. A related nonstandard form, irregardless, is widely criticized by style guides and most dictionaries do not recognize it as correct English. In such cases, use regardless or regardless of followed by a noun or pronoun.

Related terms and synonyms: anyway, anyhow, in any case, come what may, irrespective. Antonyms include “with regard to” or “in consideration of,” which convey the opposite idea.

Examples:

- Regardless of the delay, the project must continue.

- The team pressed on, regardless.

See also: in spite of, despite, irrespective, come what may.