adj
apathetic
a-puh-THEH-tihk
Apathetic (adj) means showing little or no interest, enthusiasm, or concern. Example: “Voter turnout was low because so many people felt apathetic about the candidates.”
adj
1
Showing little or no interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
"Voter turnout was low because so many people felt apathetic about the candidates."
"He seemed apathetic about losing his job."
How to use apathetic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishNot caring, showing no real interest or emotion either way.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "empathetic" (showing understanding of others' feelings) — they look similar but mean nearly opposite things in tone.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
apathetic about
apathetic toward
grow apathetic
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Word forms
- Plural
- apathetics
- Comparative
- more apathetic
- Superlative
- most apathetic
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Voter turnout was low because so many people felt _____ about the candidates.
Etymology
From "apathy" + the adjective ending "-etic."
Synonyms
View more →
adiaphroistic
apathistical
blasé
blithe
deaf
cool
shiftless
dispassionate
dull
enervated
gallionic
halfhearted
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for apathetic
See all rhymes for apathetic →Frequently asked questions
What does “apathetic” mean?
The word “apathetic” means showing little or no interest, enthusiasm, or concern. In plain terms, not caring, showing no real interest or emotion either way.
How do you pronounce “apathetic”?
“Apathetic” is pronounced a-puh-THEH-tihk (/ˌæpəˈθɛtɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “apathetic” in a sentence?
Here is “apathetic” used in a sentence: “Voter turnout was low because so many people felt apathetic about the candidates.”
What is another word for “apathetic”?
Words with a similar meaning to “apathetic” include adiaphroistic, apathistical, blasé, blithe, deaf and cool.
What is the opposite of “apathetic”?
The opposite of “apathetic” — its antonyms — are furious, effusive, emotional, enthusiastic and excited.
What part of speech is “apathetic”?
“Apathetic” is an adjective.
