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indifferent

adjective

/ɪnˈdɪf(ə)rənt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of indifferent

Describing a state of apathy, lack of interest, or impartiality towards a particular person, thing, situation, or outcome.
"She was indifferent to the latest fashion trends."

Detailed meaning of indifferent

When someone is described as indifferent, it means they exhibit a disinterest or detachment, showing neither strong approval nor strong disapproval. Indifference can manifest as a lack of emotional investment or concern, often resulting in a neutral or unresponsive attitude. It signifies a certain level of detachment from the matter at hand and can be indicative of a person's indifference to the outcome or consequences. However, it's important to note that indifference doesn't always imply callousness; it can also reflect a deliberate choice to remain neutral or uninvolved in certain matters.

Example sentences containing indifferent

1. He was indifferent to the rain, continuing his walk as if nothing was out of the ordinary.
2. The waiter seemed indifferent to our requests, never meeting our eyes.
3. She tried to appear indifferent, but her face betrayed her worry.
4. His indifferent attitude towards schoolwork was starting to affect his grades.
5. The cat glanced at the toy mouse with an indifferent expression, preferring to continue its nap.
6. The crowd reacted to the announcement with an indifferent murmur.

History and etymology of indifferent

The adjective 'indifferent' has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'indifferentem,' which is a combination of 'in' (not) and 'differens' (differing or making a difference). In its original Latin form, it meant 'not making a difference' or 'having no preference.' Over time, as Latin evolved into Old French and then into Middle English, the term 'indifferent' came to describe a state of apathy, lack of interest, or impartiality towards a particular person, thing, situation, or outcome. When someone is described as 'indifferent,' it suggests a disinterest or neutrality, emphasizing that they do not favor one option over another. The etymology of 'indifferent' reflects the idea of not being swayed by differences or preferences, highlighting a state of emotional detachment or impartiality.

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Further usage examples of indifferent

1. Though she told him about her promotion, he responded with an indifferent shrug.
2. The indifferent sky showed no signs of the storm that had just passed.
3. They were largely indifferent to the political happenings, focusing instead on their daily routines.
4. With an indifferent gesture, he pushed the pile of letters aside.
5. Her indifferent facade did little to mask the pain she felt inside.
6. The sunset was indifferent to the chaos of the city beneath it.
7. He answered my question with an indifferent nod, his mind clearly elsewhere.
8. Despite the urgency of the situation, she remained strangely indifferent.
9. The indifferent response to his performance disappointed the young comedian.
10. Her indifferent tone was in stark contrast to the severity of the situation.
11. Despite the heated debate around him, he remained oddly indifferent.
12. She gave an indifferent glance at the mirror before leaving the house.
13. His indifferent acceptance of the punishment surprised everyone.
14. With an indifferent air, she flipped through the pages of the old book.