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Definitions

inadvertent

[in-uhd-vur-tnt] / ˌɪn ədˈvɜr tnt /
ADJECTIVE
accidental
Synonyms
STRONGEST
careless reckless unintended unintentional unwitting
WEAK
chance feckless heedless irreflective negligent not on purpose thoughtless uncaring unconcerned undesigned undevised unheeding unmindful unplanned unpremeditated unthinking unthought
Antonyms
STRONGEST
careful cautious intentional
WEAK
advertent attentive deliberate planned

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Wrangling Gellar free from her inadvertent nostalgic trappings is no simple task.

From Salon • Mar. 26, 2026

McDonnell said he ordered an internal audit to determine whether similar inadvertent sharing had occurred within the Los Angeles Police Department.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 3, 2026

Her lawyers say any misstatement in her mortgage papers was, at worst, an inadvertent paperwork error.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 21, 2026

"Even if it's inadvertent or a mistake, it's quite a big mistake," said solicitor general D John Sauer, who was arguing the case for the administration.

From BBC • Jan. 21, 2026

Rahel ignored her and blew an inadvertent spit bubble.

From "The God of Small Things" by Arundhati Roy

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.