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