轻率 (qīng shuài) is an adjective meaning 'rash' or 'careless'—describing actions, decisions, or judgments made without sufficient thought, caution, or consideration of consequences. The first character 轻 (qīng) literally means 'light' or 'not heavy', suggesting something lacking weight or seriousness; the second character 率 (shuài) conveys 'to lead' or 'to act impulsively', and in this compound it contributes the sense of hasty or unreflective action. Together, they evoke the image of acting as if the matter were 'light'—trivializing its importance.

This word is commonly used to criticize decisions in personal, professional, or social contexts—especially when someone jumps to conclusions, gives advice prematurely, or acts without gathering facts. It carries a mild-to-moderate negative tone and often appears in formal writing, news reports, or serious conversations. While not extremely harsh, it implies a failure of responsibility or prudence, and is frequently paired with nouns like 决定 (decision), 判断 (judgment), or 行为 (behavior).