What is the term for the mental lapse of forgetting an important detail due to distraction or lack of attention?

The term that describes the mental lapse of forgetting an important detail due to distraction or lack of attention is absent-mindedness. This phenomenon often occurs when an individual's focus is divided, which leads to a failure to encode or retrieve specific information. Absent-mindedness can happen during routine tasks where the person may not be fully paying attention, causing them to overlook significant details.

In this context, absent-mindedness highlights how our cognitive processes can be influenced by external factors, such as our environment or internal distractions, leading to moments of forgetfulness. Understanding this concept can help individuals become more mindful and improve their focus, ultimately reducing instances of absent-minded lapses in daily life.