What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
distracted
Example
I'm sorry, I was distracted by the noise outside. [distracted: adjective]
Example
She couldn't concentrate on her work because she was distracted by her phone. [distracted: verb]
Example
He seemed distracted during the meeting and didn't contribute much. [distracted: adjective]
inattentive
Example
The student received a poor grade because he was inattentive during class. [inattentive: adjective]
Example
She was inattentive to the details of the project and made several mistakes. [inattentive: adjective]
Example
He was accused of being inattentive to his duties as a manager. [inattentive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Distracted is more commonly used than inattentive in everyday language, as it is a more versatile word that covers a wider range of contexts. Inattentive is less common and tends to be used in more formal or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between distracted and inattentive?
Inattentive is more formal than distracted, and is typically used in professional or academic contexts. Distracted is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
