The word "irregardless" is considered nonstandard English, and its use is often debated among language purists and linguists. The main reason some people use "irregardless" is likely due to its frequent colloquial use over time. While it is considered incorrect in formal writing and standard English, it has become ingrained in certain regional dialects and informal speech.
The word "irregardless" is a double negative, combining "ir-" (a prefix that can mean "not" or "the opposite of") with "regardless." The correct term would be "regardless" if someone wants to convey the meaning of "without regard" or "in any case."
Despite its nonstandard status, language is continually evolving, and words and phrases that were once considered incorrect or slang can eventually find their way into more common usage. The widespread use of "irregardless" has led some dictionaries to include it as a colloquial or informal variant of "regardless." However, it is still not considered acceptable in formal or academic writing.
Language is a complex and dynamic system, and its usage can vary depending on context, culture, and region. As long as language users are aware of the appropriate contexts for certain words and expressions, linguistic diversity and evolution can be embraced without sacrificing clarity and effective communication.