Inadvertent

/ˌɪnədˈvɜrtənt/ adjective

Definition

Done without conscious intention; happening by accident or oversight rather than by design.

Etymology

From Latin 'inadvertens,' from 'in-' (not) and 'advertere' (to turn toward, pay attention). The word literally means 'not paying attention,' which explains why inadvertent things happen.

Kelly Says

Think 'not advertising attention' - when you're inadvertent, you're not advertising (paying) attention to what you're doing! Your mind isn't turned toward the action.

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