Indifference
A lack of interest, concern, or sympathy; the state of not caring about something or someone, or of showing no bias in judging a matter.
nounIndifference
A lack of interest, concern, or sympathy; the state of not caring about something or someone, or of showing no bias in judging a matter.
nounImagine This
A bystander watches a heated argument unfold on stage but remains expressionless, showing no interest in the dispute or any side's point of view.
Sounds Like
in-DIF-uh-ruhn(t)s
Looks Like
Looks like 'difference' with an 'in' at the start; visually similar to the word 'difference'
Remember This
Indifference often implies emotional distance or neutrality. The adjective form is indifferent. It contrasts with care, empathy, and interest.
Other Forms
Connect With
apathy, neutrality, detachment, aloofness, bias (as a contrast)
Note
Be mindful of context: indifference can describe a personal attitude (lacking interest) or a stance of neutrality in judgment. Do not confuse with indignant or indifferent in the sense of caring none; indifference typically implies a lack of feeling rather than a moral stance.
Study Deeper
- Her indifference to the suffering of others shocked her friends.
- The manager's indifference to employee concerns frustrated the team.
From Latin indifferentem, formed from in- 'not' + differentia 'difference, distinction', via Old French indifférent.
INDIFFERENCE: IN DIFFERENCE — you don't care which side the differences fall on; you lack interest or bias.
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Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Apathy
nounA lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
Abasement
nounThe act or instance of humiliating or degrading someone; the state of being lowered in dignity or status.
Absurdity
nounThe quality or state of being wildly unreasonable, illogical, or ridiculous; something that is completely contrary to reason or common sense.
Accent
nounA distinctive way of pronouncing words; the act of emphasizing a syllable or word (as a verb, to accent means to emphasize).
Accolade
nounAn honor; a public expression of praise or an award.
Acrimony
nounBitterness of speech or manner; ill feeling