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scatterbrained
/ˈskætərˌbreɪnd/
What does "scatterbrained" mean in English?
forgetful and disorganizedI was so scatterbrained today that I left my keys in the fridge.
The speaker describes being so distracted that they put their keys in an unusual place.
How to use "scatterbrained" correctly: definitions and examples in English?
informal
Having a forgetful or disorganized mind; prone to losing focus or misplacing things.
She’s too scatterbrained to remember appointments without her phone.
The speaker emphasizes her forgetfulness without external reminders.
His scatterbrained approach to work caused delays in the project.
The speaker criticizes his disorganized work habits.
Often implies a lack of attention to detail rather than intellectual incapacity.
Collocations
scatterbrained ideaa poorly thought-out planscatterbrained personsomeone who is forgetful or unfocused
Pro Tip
Avoid overusing in formal writing
While 'scatterbrained' is vivid in informal contexts, opt for 'forgetful' or 'disorganized' in academic or professional texts.
Gold Rule
Use for temporary states, not permanent traits
Reserve 'scatterbrained' for situational forgetfulness (e.g., 'I’m scatterbrained today') rather than lifelong tendencies.
Word Origin
Compound of 'scatter' (from Middle English 'scateren', meaning to disperse) and 'brained' (from 'brain'). First attested in the early 20th century as a colloquial term for a lack of mental coherence.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in casual speech to describe someone whose thoughts are easily distracted. Avoid using in formal contexts where precision is required.
Word Breakdown
scatter
to disperse or spread out randomly
rootbrained
relating to the mind
suffixEnglish Dictionary