Distractibility Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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distractibility

[dɪˌstræktəˈbɪləti ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in psychology

The quality or state of being easily diverted or drawn away from the task at hand.

Synonyms

distraction, inattentiveness, lack of focus.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
distractibility	Generally used to describe a state of being easily distracted. His constant distractibility was making it hard to finish the project on time.
inattentiveness	Describes the quality of not paying attention. Often used in educational or medical contexts. Inattentiveness in class may lead to poor academic performance. His inattentiveness to detail caused several errors in the report.
distraction	Refers to something that diverts attention from the main task or focus. Can be used in casual and professional settings. The loud music was a distraction during the exam. Social media is often cited as a major distraction at work.
lack of focus	Commonly used to describe a temporary state where a person is unable to concentrate. Applicable in both casual and professional settings. I've been experiencing a lack of focus all day. His lack of focus during the meeting was noticeable.

Examples of usage

She struggled with distractibility, often finding herself losing focus during important meetings.
His distractibility was a hindrance to his productivity at work.
The distractibility of the students in the classroom made it challenging for the teacher to maintain their attention.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

People with high distractibility often struggle to concentrate, especially in noisy or busy environments.
Distractibility can be linked to conditions like ADHD, where focus can shift rapidly from task to task.
Research shows that distractions can reduce productivity significantly, often by up to 40%.

Education

Students in classrooms with minimal distractions tend to perform better on tests and assignments.
Teaching techniques that incorporate short breaks may help manage distractibility and maintain attention.
Group activities can either increase or decrease distractibility, depending on how engaged students are with the task.

Technology

The rise of smartphones and social media has increased distractibility for many, making it easier to lose focus.
Apps and tools designed to minimize distractions can help individuals manage their attention more effectively.
Notifications and alerts are common culprits for pulling attention away from essential tasks.

Pop Culture

Television shows often depict characters struggling with distractibility, emphasizing the struggle to stay on task.
Many popular memes relate to the feeling of being easily distracted, resonating with a wide audience.
Books and movies exploring the theme of concentration and distraction often highlight how modern life challenges focus.

Health

Lack of sleep can heighten distractibility, making it harder to concentrate during the day.
Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, can help improve focus and reduce distractibility over time.
Regular physical activity is shown to enhance cognitive function and decrease distractibility.

Origin of 'distractibility'

The word 'distractibility' originated from the verb 'distract', which comes from the Latin word 'distractus', meaning 'divided'. In psychology, distractibility refers to the tendency to be easily diverted or drawn away from a task. This concept has been studied in the context of attention disorders and cognitive functioning.