inadvertent
in-ad-VUR-tent
/ˌɪnədˈvɜːrtənt/
Not resulting from or achieved through deliberate planning; unintentional.
Usually describes a mistake or an oversight rather than a lucky accident.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'in-' (not) and 'advertere' (to turn the mind toward). It literally means 'not turning your mind toward something,' hence an oversight.
Word relationships
- unintentional: Inadvertent often implies a lack of attention or 'not looking' (advertent).
- deliberate: Done on purpose after careful thought.
Commonly confused with
- accidental: Accidental is broader; inadvertent specifically implies a lack of focus or attention.
Word family
- inadvertently (adverb): without intention; accidentally
- inadvertence (noun): the quality of being inadvertent
Collocations
- inadvertent error
- inadvertent omission
- inadvertent consequence
Example sentences
- "The witness gave an inadvertent disclosure of confidential information during the cross-examination." Legal context.
- "It was an inadvertent error, but it cost the company thousands of dollars." Everyday error.
Memory hook
In- (not) + Advert (attention). You didn't pay attention to the 'advert' (sign). Not turning your mind toward it.
When not to use
Don't use for positive 'lucky' accidents (use fortuitous).
Fun facts
- The word 'advert' (as in advertisement) comes from the same root—it's something meant to make you 'turn your mind' toward a product.
Explore more words
inattention, negligent, negligence, unforeseen, miss the mark, infrequent
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