WordGarden.iobrainless
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /brˈeɪnləs/
US
- /ˈbreɪnlɪs/
Meanings
Adjective
very stupid or showing no good judgment
requiring little thought or mental effort
having no brain
Beyond the definition
Calling someone brainless isn't exactly a compliment. It means they are acting in a remarkably silly, foolish, or careless way, as if they had no common sense. Think of a cartoon character running into a wall—that's a brainless move. But it can also describe something utterly lacking in thought or judgment. A truly brainless plan is one doomed to fail from the start. It is often used playfully, but it can be hurtful if aimed at someone with malice. Imagine a friend suggesting you try to fly—you might jokingly call that idea brainless.
The word "brainless" carries a strong negative connotation, implying a complete lack of intelligence, common sense, or good judgment. It's more than just being wrong; it suggests acting without thinking beforehand.
You might describe someone as brainless if they repeatedly make poor decisions, ignore obvious dangers, or behave in a remarkably foolish way. For example: "It was brainless to go hiking in a thunderstorm," meaning the decision was reckless and lacked foresight.
However, brainless isn't always used seriously. It can describe silly antics or lighthearted mistakes. "Don't do anything too brainless while I'm gone!" is a gentle warning to avoid trouble, not necessarily a harsh insult.
The term also extends beyond people. You can call an idea brainless if it's fundamentally flawed and unlikely to succeed. A brainless scheme might involve trying to build a house out of marshmallows. It can also describe repetitive, mind-numbing work—what people might call a brainless job.
While the word is often harsh, context is key. Sometimes it is playful teasing; other times it is a genuine expression of frustration or disappointment with someone's lack of judgment. Ultimately, brainless highlights a perceived absence of intelligent thought and careful consideration.
Examples
- 1
Social mistake
That was a brainless thing to say in front of her parents.
- 2
Work mistake
He made a brainless mistake and sent the email to the whole company.
- 3
Easy entertainment
The show is basically brainless entertainment, but sometimes that's exactly what I want after work.
- Phrasebrainless entertainment
entertainment that is fun but does not need much thought
- 4
Movie criticism
Critics dismissed the movie as brainless action with no real story.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Argument
By the end of the meeting, the discussion had turned into brainless shouting.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- brainless decision
- brainless idea
- brainless entertainment
Word family
- -less
Explore
- lack of judgment
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- brainlessadjective