inadvertence

[ in-uhd-vur-tns ]

noun

1. the quality or condition of being inadvertent; heedlessness.
2. the act or effect of inattention; an oversight.

inadvertence

/ ˌɪnədˈvɜːtəns /

noun

1. lack of attention; heedlessness
2. an instance or an effect of being inadvertent; oversight; slip

Word History and Origins

Origin of inadvertence¹

From the Medieval Latin word inadvertentia, dating back to 1560–70. See inadvertency, -ence

Example Sentences

He blamed his lawyer and longtime friend David Schwartz for failing to check the validity of his citations before submitting them to the judge, though he asked that the judge dispense mercy toward Schwartz, calling his failure to check the citations an “honest mistake” and “a product of inadvertence, not any intent to deceive.”

From Washington Times

He blamed his lawyer and longtime friend David Schwartz for failing to check the validity of his citations before submitting them to the judge, though he asked that the judge dispense mercy toward Schwartz, calling his failure to check the citations an “honest mistake” and “a product of inadvertence, not any intent to deceive.”

From Seattle Times

“Do we know that his failure to comply beyond reasonable doubt wasn’t the result of accident, inadvertence or mistake?” he said.

From Washington Times

“Do we know that his failure to comply beyond reasonable doubt wasn’t the result of accident, inadvertence or mistake?” he said.

From Seattle Times

It is especially galling for Thomas to claim inadvertence because this is not the first time it has happened.

From Slate