Absentminded: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who is often lost in thought and unaware of what is happening around them.

• She stood there looking absentminded as the conversation went on without her

Used when someone is not paying attention to a specific task or situation, suggesting a lack of focus.

• During the lecture, some students were inattentive and missed important information

Describes a person who often forgets things, such as appointments, names, or tasks.

• My grandmother is becoming forgetful; she often forgets where she put her keys

Used when someone is unable to concentrate because their attention is taken by other things, often temporarily.

• He was distracted by the noise outside and couldn't focus on his homework

When someone is forgetful or inattentive, often lost in thought and not paying attention to their surroundings.

• She walked out of the house absentmindedly, forgetting to lock the door

When someone is deeply absorbed in their own thoughts or worries, making them less aware of what is happening around them.

• Laura seemed preoccupied with the upcoming exam and didn't notice her friend waving at her

When someone has their attention diverted away from the task at hand, often by an external factor.

• He was distracted by the noise outside and missed the key points of the lecture

When someone is unable to concentrate or direct their attention effectively towards an objective, often appearing vague or scattered.

• His thoughts were unfocused, jumping from one idea to another without making much sense