attentiveness

[uh-ten-tiv-nis]

noun

1. the ability and inclination to pay attention, as to a speaker, a task, information, events, etc..

   Candidates must demonstrate a high degree of clerical accuracy and attentiveness to detail.

2. the quality of being considerate of others and their needs; thoughtfulness; courtesy.

   Her exceptional care and attentiveness toward her patients is renowned.

Other Word Forms

• overattentiveness noun
• unattentiveness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of attentiveness¹

First recorded in 1545–55; attentive ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

“The legacy of the inflation surge and price attentiveness continue to weigh on consumption and saving decisions, with a higher saving ratio via precautionary motives being one explanation for the consumption gap,” Mann said.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

We must cultivate a critical consciousness rooted in attentiveness: to history, to the structures of power, to the unseen and the silenced.

Read more on Salon

Alert to his attentiveness, but unsettled by both his remove and my growing interest, I risked reaching out again, this time about remodeling my garage.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Rather than cover their ears, players praised Bieniemy’s attentiveness and said he offered as much praise as criticism.

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She was impressed by his manner, his dedication and attentiveness.

Read more on Los Angeles Times