inattention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "inattention" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lack of attention or focus on something, often leading to mistakes or oversights. Example: "His inattention during the meeting resulted in several important details being overlooked."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In that case the effect of inattention would be inattentional agnosia, rather than inattentional blindness (see Simons, 2000).

SEP

But because of the continued use of Microsoft's long-outdated Windows XP in not-fully-updated versions, some installations of Internet Explorer 6 could be forced to use the outdated security protocol, giving a hacker access to traffic to and from a web server.Each of the four problems may seem particular, but they all stem from inattention.

The Economist

The White House has claimed that, just before the invasion of Iraq, Mr Clarke met Ms Rice but did not raise his worries that such an action would harm the war on terror.Wilful inattention?It might also be argued that the administration, in attacking Mr Clarke, was merely responding in kind to the personal criticisms that Mr Clarke himself had levelled at its members.

The Economist

But inattention was loosely defined and encompassed three potential modes of distraction: visual, physical and cognitive.

The Economist

So why is hands-free texting so dangerous?In 2006 a study published by the United States Department of Transportation concluded that inattention while driving accounted for 78% of all crashes and near crashes.

The Economist

The inattention of China's leaders to the stockmarket contrasts starkly with their obsession with bank restructuring because the banks' troubles are easier to understand, hazards Mr Fang.

The Economist

In the AAA Foundation study, the authors focused specifically on the cognitive component of inattention while drivers performed particular tasks.

The Economist

Republicans in Richmond hastily rewrote their bill, requiring merely an obligatory abdominal ultrasound rather than the use of a vaginal probe.The fact that Mr McDonnell had not foreseen a public backlash to the vaginal-ultrasound requirement seems, to some, to illustrate his tone-deafness and inattention to detail.

The Economist

So the new administration, under its chief minister, Dharam Singh, a portly grass-roots politician who prides himself on his common touch, forswore the "urban bias" of its predecessor.The city soon felt the pain of the government's inattention.

The Economist

Although friends say he in fact mentioned only blacks in the letter, it still shows a remarkable inattention to the facts.

The Economist

What the youngsters have in common is an eagerness to learn that has yet to be dampened by overcrowded schools, poor teachers and administrative inattention.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the impact of "inattention", clearly specify the context and consequences. For instance, "Inattention to detail can lead to significant errors in data analysis."

Common error

Avoid using "inattention" when you actually mean "disinterest". "Inattention" refers to a lack of focus or awareness, while "disinterest" implies a lack of interest or concern. One might show "inattention" due to fatigue, but "disinterest" stems from a lack of engagement.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "inattention" is as a noun, typically referring to a state or quality of lacking attention. Ludwig examples show it functioning as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "inattention" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun that describes a lack of attention or focus. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage. It's common in news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. When using "inattention", be specific about the context and consequences. Alternatives include "lack of attention", "negligence", and "carelessness". Avoid confusing "inattention" with "disinterest". Be aware of the different types of texts in order to produce high quality and coherent content.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of attention

Directly indicates the absence of attentiveness.

lack of focus

Similar to "lack of attention" but emphasizes mental concentration.

negligence

Implies a failure to exercise the necessary care.

carelessness

Suggests a lack of caution or thoroughness.

heedlessness

Indicates a disregard for potential consequences.

thoughtlessness

Highlights a lack of consideration for others or for the situation.

unmindfulness

Suggests a lack of awareness or conscious thought.

oversight

Refers to an unintentional failure to notice something.

distraction

Focuses on the state of being unable to concentrate.

forgetfulness

Emphasizes the failure to remember or recall.

FAQs

How is "inattention" used in a sentence?

You can use "inattention" to describe a lack of focus or care. For example, "The accident was caused by the driver's "inattention" to the road."

What words can I use instead of "inattention"?

Alternatives include "lack of attention", "negligence", or "carelessness", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "inattention" and "negligence"?

"Inattention" generally refers to a lack of focus, while "negligence" implies a failure to exercise reasonable care, often with legal or ethical implications.

What are the primary causes of "inattention"?

"Inattention" can stem from various factors, including fatigue, distraction, lack of interest, or underlying conditions like ADHD. Understanding the cause is important to address the problem effectively.