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Forgetfulness - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Forgetfulness is the tendency to fail to remember things, such as names, tasks, or events. It can be occasional or frequent and may result from distraction or memory lapses.

forgetfulness

/fɚˈɡɛtfəlnəs/ /fəˈɡɛtfəlnəs/

Definition:

The state of being unable to remember things or prone to forgetting.

Synonyms:

oblivion, absentmindedness, amnesia, heedlessness

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

remembrance, recall, mindfulness

Common Collocations:

senior forgetfulness, occasional forgetfulness, chronic forgetfulness, temporary forgetfulness

Derivatives:

forgetful, forgetfully, unforgettable

Usage Tips:

Use "forgetfulness" to describe habitual memory lapses rather than a single instance of forgetting something.

Common Phrases:

lapse of memory, senior moment, slip of the mind

Etymology:

Derived from Old English "forgietan" (to forget) + "-ness," indicating a state or condition.

Examples:

  • 1. Her forgetfulness often leads to misplaced keys.
  • 2. Age-related forgetfulness can be frustrating but is usually harmless.
  • 3. Stress may contribute to temporary forgetfulness in daily tasks.
  • 4. His forgetfulness about appointments annoyed his colleagues.

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