What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
unhearing
Example
The unhearing child was fitted with hearing aids to help her hear better. [unhearing: adjective]
Example
He was unhearing to her pleas for help and continued on with his work. [unhearing: adjective]
Example
Her cries for help went unhearing as no one was around to hear them. [unhearing: adverb]
inattentive
Example
The inattentive student missed the important details in the lecture. [inattentive: adjective]
Example
She was inattentive to the road and almost caused an accident. [inattentive: adjective]
Example
His inattentiveness to detail led to many mistakes in his work. [inattentiveness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inattentive is more commonly used than unhearing in everyday language, as it is a more versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between unhearing and inattentive?
Both unhearing and inattentive are formal words that are typically used in professional or academic settings.