indifference

[in-dif-er-uhns, -dif-ruhns] / ɪnˈdɪf ər əns, -ˈdɪf rəns /

NOUN

absence of feeling, interest

Synonyms

STRONGEST

alienation apathy callousness carelessness disdain disinterest disregard inattention inertia insensitivity lack negligence nonchalance

STRONG

aloofness coldness coolness detachment disinterestedness dispassion equity heedlessness immunity impartiality impassiveness impassivity insouciance isolationism lethargy listlessness neutrality noninterference objectivity stoicism torpor unconcern unmindfulness

WEAK

cold shoulder cold-bloodedness

Antonyms

STRONGEST

attention esteem respect

STRONG

bias

WEAK

caring compassion concern feeling interest involvement regard sympathy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Even more memorable is Sylvie, whose furious pretense of indifference to Helen belies her heartbreak.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

While his call for peace and an end to the “globalization of indifference” is a vital message for our time, turning away isn’t always a sign of indifference.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

Nothing is sadder than to watch people stroll past that memorial as if nothing is out of the ordinary, our civic pride and historical perspective crushed under the weight of indifference.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026

An investigation into an "alleged incident of inappropriate behaviour by one of the senior leaders" subsequently found "a culture of indifference towards safeguarding" at the church.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

We were greeted by curious stares and an indifference that completely unsettled me.

From "The Boy on the Wooden Box" by Leon Leyson

Vocabulary lists containing indifference

A Raisin in the Sun

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"The Perils of Indifference," Vocabulary from the speech

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Hamilton

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!