unintentional discourtesy

noun phrase

Meaning

A lack of polite behavior or consideration that occurs without any conscious desire to offend or cause harm.

Examples

  • His unintentional discourtesy during the meeting was simply a result of being overwhelmed by the project deadline.
  • She apologized for her unintentional discourtesy, explaining that she hadn't noticed her friend waving from across the street.

Synonyms: oversight, faux pas, gaffe, indiscretion