Absentmindedly: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is not paying attention because their mind is focused on something else.

• He walked absentmindedly into the room, not noticing that everyone was staring at him

Used when someone does something without being aware of it, often as a habit or reflex.

• He unconsciously tapped his foot while waiting for the bus

Used when someone is not giving their full attention to something, often leading to missed details or misunderstandings.

• The student listened inattentively to the lecture, missing important points

Used when someone does something without careful thought or attention, often causing mistakes or accidents.

• She carelessly knocked over the glass, spilling water everywhere

When someone performs an action without giving it much thought, often because their mind is focused elsewhere. Usually used when describing small, repetitive tasks.

• She stirred her coffee absentmindedly while reading the newspaper
• He walked absentmindedly through the park, lost in his thoughts

Describes someone who often forgets things, such as appointments, names, or tasks. It can imply a more chronic condition than 'absentminded'.

• My grandmother has become quite forgetful in her old age
• I am terribly forgetful; I need to write everything down

Implies a lack of attention, often when someone is not paying attention in a situation where attention is expected. Can have a negative connotation.

• The inattentive student missed half of the lecture
• The driver was inattentive and nearly caused an accident

Used when someone is unable to concentrate on a task because their attention is diverted by something else. Can imply a temporary state induced by external factors.

• She felt distracted by the loud noise outside
• He was so distracted by his phone that he missed the instructions