Nelson-Denny Practice Test

The term "foolhardy" describes a person who acts with a foolish disregard for danger or consequences, essentially implying a sense of recklessness. Therefore, the best synonym for "foolhardy" is "reckless," as both convey a lack of caution or a willingness to take unnecessary risks without considering the possible outcomes.

In contrast, "careful," "prudent," and "wise" denote a mindset that values caution, sound judgment, and forethought—qualities that are directly opposite to the nature of foolhardiness. Recognizing these distinctions helps clarify why "reckless" aligns with the meaning of "foolhardy" more accurately than the other options.