inattention

From Latin 'in-' (not, without) and 'attentionem' (a stretching toward, an applying of the mind), ultimately from 'attendere' (to stretch toward, give heed to).

NOUN (1)

[/ˌɪnəˈtɛnʃən/^en-US]

不注意 generalcommon / 無注意 formalliteral / 不注意さ nuancestate / 気の緩み idiomatictemporary_lapse (Refers to a temporary slackening of attention or vigilance.) / 注意散漫 related_conceptdistraction (More accurately translates to 'distraction' or 'scattered attention', which is a common cause or manifestation of inattention.)

Synonyms carelessness generalnegligence , negligence formallegal , heedlessness generalinformal , distraction related_conceptcause , oversight consequenceerror , thoughtlessness generalmental_state

Antonyms attention direct_oppositegeneral , focus direct_oppositemental_state , concentration direct_oppositemental_state , vigilance activeawareness , mindfulness activeawarenessdeliberate

The English word "inattention" refers to a lack of attention, focus, or concentration. It means not paying enough heed or not being careful enough, often leading to mistakes, oversights, or a failure to notice something important. It can manifest as a general state of being unobservant or as a temporary lapse in vigilance. Common Japanese equivalents include 不注意 (fuchūi), which is a general term for carelessness or inattentiveness, and 無注意 (muchūi), a more formal or literal translation. It can also describe a state of being unmindful, similar to 不注意さ (fuchūisa). When it refers to a temporary slackening of one's guard or focus, the idiomatic Japanese expression 気の緩み (ki no yurumi) captures this nuance well. While 注意散漫 (chūi sanman) is often related, it specifically means 'scattered attention' or 'distraction,' which can be a cause of inattention rather than inattention itself. In English, "inattention" often implies a personal failing or a temporary mental state, differentiating it from external distractions.

plural
inattentions

The accident was caused by the driver's inattention. — その事故は運転手の不注意によって引き起こされた。
His inattention in class led to him missing important instructions. — 彼の授業中の不注意が、重要な指示を聞き逃すことにつながった。
A moment of inattention can have serious consequences. — 一瞬の気の緩みが深刻な結果を招くことがある。
The report highlighted widespread inattention to safety protocols. — その報告書は、安全規定に対する広範な無注意を強調した。
She apologized for her inattention during the meeting. — 彼女は会議中の不注意について謝罪した。