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noun Uncommon

indifference

ihn-DIHF-ruhns

Indifference (noun) means a lack of interest, concern, or sympathy. Example: “His indifference to their suffering shocked the volunteers.”

noun
1
A lack of interest, concern, or sympathy.
"His indifference to their suffering shocked the volunteers."
"She responded to the insult with total indifference."

How to use indifference

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishNot caring one way or the other — a lack of interest or emotional reaction.

Common pairings
treat with indifference feign indifference public indifference

Word forms

indifferences plural

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His _____ to their suffering shocked the volunteers.

Etymology

From Late Latin indifferentia, from in- ("not") + differre ("to differ").

Origin: Late Latin

Related words

Rhymes for indifference

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Frequently asked questions

What does “indifference” mean?

The word “indifference” means a lack of interest, concern, or sympathy. In plain terms, not caring one way or the other — a lack of interest or emotional reaction.

How do you pronounce “indifference”?

“Indifference” is pronounced ihn-DIHF-ruhns (/ɪnˈdɪf.ɹəns/ in IPA).

How do you use “indifference” in a sentence?

Here is “indifference” used in a sentence: “His indifference to their suffering shocked the volunteers.”

What part of speech is “indifference”?

“Indifference” is a noun.

Where does the word “indifference” come from?

The word “indifference” comes from Late Latin. From Late Latin indifferentia, from in- ("not") + differre ("to differ").

Is “indifference” a common word?

“Indifference” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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