attentiveness

American  

[uh-ten-tiv-nis] / əˈtɛn tɪv nɪs /

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

Etymology

Origin of attentiveness

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

Example Sentences

According to the hotel's website, guests are allocated a sunbed upon check-in and allowed to request their "preferred spot" for the duration of their holiday which is decided "with fairness and attentiveness".

From BBC • May 10, 2026

To be sure, I was ready to take over, as required, but to be fair, my attentiveness waned occasionally.

From Barron's • May 3, 2026

You sense this in his work ethic and what it produces, an intimacy of form that implies an almost ritualistic attentiveness to the world around him on its own terms.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 4, 2026

When I waited tables, kindness was certainly appreciated, but attentiveness mattered much more.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 3, 2026

Her husband’s death had inspired in her a greater attentiveness to her books and flowers and a greater need for people.

From "Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel" by David Guterson