benign neglect

noun

1. an attitude or policy of noninterference or neglect of a situation, which may have a more beneficial effect than assuming responsibility; well-intentioned neglect.

Word History and Origins

Origin of benign neglect¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

“It wasn’t benign neglect but a designed robbery of the financial system,” the country’s new central bank governor, Dr Ahsan Mansur, told the BBC in an recent exclusive interview.

From BBC

All you need is a lot of light and benign neglect to raise healthy and beautiful succulents.

From Seattle Times

Benign neglect of the most challenging cases only makes things worse for youth in crisis.

From Seattle Times

According to Stearns, Russell’s estate was in a state of benign neglect — “His socials were so low,” she says — before Primary Wave got involved along with David Zonshine, a longtime music-industry figure who currently runs Harrison’s Dark Horse Records.

From Los Angeles Times

That is due in large part to the dedication of school teachers, who miraculously show up in droves, ready to do what they can to help kids learn and grow, even as they face obstacles like racism, poverty, oppression, and even just benign neglect.

From Salon