The word “observant” means being quick to notice or pay attention to things. Here are some antonyms and an analysis:
Inattentive: This is a direct antonym. It means not paying attention or being careless in noticing things. For example, “The inattentive student missed many details that the observant ones picked up on.” Inattentive people are often distracted or simply not focused on their surroundings, in contrast to observant individuals who are constantly on the lookout.
Unobservant: As the name suggests, it means not being observant. For instance, “He was so unobservant that he walked past the beautiful scenery without even noticing it.” Unobservant people fail to notice even obvious things and lack the awareness and attentiveness of observant people.
Negligent: This implies being careless or neglectful in observing or attending to something. For example, “The driver was negligent and didn't observe the stop sign.” Negligent people are not just unobservant but also irresponsible in their lack of attention.
Oblivious: It means being completely unaware or not noticing something. For example, “She was oblivious to the changes happening around her while the observant ones were quick to adapt.” Oblivious people are so caught up in their own thoughts or activities that they are completely blind to what's going on around them.
In summary, these antonyms of “observant” describe people who are either not paying attention, not noticing things, being careless, or completely unaware, in contrast to those who are keenly observant and notice even the smallest details.