# inadvertently

/ˌɪnædˈvɝtəntɫi/ (US) · /ɪnɐdvˈɜːtəntli/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/inadvertently
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

by accident or without meaning to. You use this when you do something because you are not paying attention, not because you planned it.

For teachers: without intention; through a lack of attention or care. Often modifies verbs related to communication or physical actions.

## Examples

- I inadvertently deleted the wrong file.
- During the meeting, the manager inadvertently revealed the secret plans for the new office location.
- By failing to update the security software, the technician inadvertently left the entire network vulnerable to external attacks for several weeks.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He did it inadvertent" but "He did it inadvertently" — Learners often use the adjective form 'inadvertent' when the adverbial form is required to modify an action.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the verb it modifies or at the end of the clause.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.