inadvertently

American  

[in-uhd-vur-tnt-lee] / ˌɪn ədˈvɜr tnt li /

adverb

1. unintentionally; without meaning to.

   I apologize to anyone I have inadvertently left off this list.

2. through lack of attention; without anyone noticing.

   There is the potential for one set of rules to inadvertently replace another.

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Etymology

Origin of inadvertently

inadvertent ( def. ) + -ly

Explanation

Inadvertently is an adverb that means "without knowledge or intent," like when you inadvertently take someone else's coat from the coatroom because it looks just like yours. When you do something inadvertently, you don't mean to do it — you might inadvertently step in a puddle, leave something important at home, or hurt your friend's feelings. Some things that happen inadvertently aren't mistakes, though: They happen by chance. For example, if you just happen to park your car at the exact place that blocks a bus from hitting a pedestrian, you've inadvertently saved a life.

Example Sentences

“To the extent he inadvertently incurs exposure to those industries through third-party managers or liquid legacy investments, Tom will donate all profits to charity.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2026

At the time, many wondered whether Bondi might have inadvertently top-ticked the market.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 2, 2026

People should avoid inadvertently contacting the one-touch tilt-and-slide button for the second-row seats while entering and exiting the third row, the company said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

Newcastle United were 6-2 down against Barcelona when the midfielder slipped and inadvertently set Raphinha up with a risky first-time ball right across his own box.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026

Reverend Obertask, the walrus-magician, was going to inadvertently set fire to the Sweet Shepherd Church!

From "Louisiana's Way Home" by Kate DiCamillo

Related Words

• negligently
• recklessly