indifference

/ˌɪn.dɪˈfɹəns/
lack of interest or concern

His indifference to her feelings hurt her deeply.

He showed no interest or concern for her emotions.


formal

A state of not caring or showing interest in something or someone

The teacher's indifference to the students' questions frustrated the class.

The teacher did not care about the students' questions, which upset them.

Often used to describe emotional detachment or lack of empathy.

Collocations

show indifferenceto display a lack of interest or concernindifference tolack of concern about

Pro Tip

Common Usage

Indifference is often used to describe a lack of emotional response, especially in social or personal contexts.

Gold Rule

Avoid Misuse

Do not confuse 'indifference' with 'difference'. They have very different meanings.

Word Origin

From Middle French 'indifférence', from Latin 'indifferentia', from 'indifferens' (not different, impartial).

Usage Notes

Can be used to describe emotional responses or general attitudes. Often has a negative connotation when referring to human relationships.

Word Breakdown

in-
not
prefix
+
difference
distinction or concern
root
English Dictionary