inattention

American  

[in-uh-ten-shuhn] / ˌɪn əˈtɛn ʃən /

noun

1. lack of attention; negligence.

2. an act of neglect.

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Etymology

Origin of inattention

First recorded in 1700–10; in- ³ + attention

Explanation

When you don't pay full attention to something or someone, that's inattention. Your inattention while you're driving can lead to mistakes like running a red light or bumping into the car in front of you. If you're not focusing on something enough, you're guilty of inattention. Inattention can be dangerous when you're flying a plane, taking a math test, or babysitting an active toddler. When you add the "not" prefix in- to attention (which comes from the Latin attendere, "give heed to," or literally "stretch toward"), you get inattention.

Example Sentences

Inattention and hyperactivity symptoms were reduced by about 50% compared to the placebo group.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 5, 2021

Inattention and a failure to move over were blamed for the crash.

From Washington Times • Oct. 14, 2020

Inattention was a factor in 9 percent of large truck crashes, which fell overall in 2009 from the previous year.

From Reuters • Dec. 17, 2010

Inattention to a degree that makes some children at the mercy of their environment and all its changes, and their mental life one perpetual distraction, is a fault which teachers, of course, naturally observe.

From Youth: Its Education, Regimen, and Hygiene by Hall, G. Stanley

Inattention to this matter may give offence, as the hostess may fancy herself slighted merely because she is not city-bred.

From Frost's Laws and By-Laws of American Society A condensed but thorough treatise on etiquette and its usages in America, containing plain and reliable directions for deportment in every situation in life. by Frost, Sarah Annie

Related Words

• carelessness
• negligence