inattentively
|in-at-ten-tive-ly|
B2
/ˌɪnəˈtɛntɪvli/
(inattentive)
lack of attention
Etymology
Etymology Information
'inattentively' originates from the Latin word 'inattentus', where 'in-' meant 'not' and 'attentus' meant 'attentive'.
Historical Evolution
'inattentus' transformed into the Old French word 'inattentif', and eventually became the modern English word 'inattentive', with 'inattentively' as its adverbial form.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'not paying attention', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that shows a lack of attention or focus.
He listened inattentively to the lecture, missing important details.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41