Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective aloof contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of aloof are detached, disinterested, incurious, indifferent, and unconcerned. While all these words mean "not showing or feeling interest," aloof suggests a cool reserve arising from a sense of superiority or disdain for inferiors or from shyness.

aloof from his coworkers

When might detached be a better fit than aloof?

The meanings of detached and aloof largely overlap; however, detached implies an objective attitude achieved through absence of prejudice or selfishness.

observed family gatherings with detached amusement

When is disinterested a more appropriate choice than aloof?

Although the words disinterested and aloof have much in common, disinterested implies a circumstantial freedom from concern for personal or especially financial advantage that enables one to judge or advise without bias.

judged by a panel of disinterested observers

In what contexts can incurious take the place of aloof?

The words incurious and aloof are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, incurious implies an inability to take a normal interest due to dullness of mind or to self-centeredness.

incurious about the world

When could indifferent be used to replace aloof?

While in some cases nearly identical to aloof, indifferent implies neutrality of attitude from lack of inclination, preference, or prejudice.

indifferent to the dictates of fashion

When is it sensible to use unconcerned instead of aloof?

The synonyms unconcerned and aloof are sometimes interchangeable, but unconcerned suggests a lack of sensitivity or regard for others' needs or troubles.

unconcerned about the homeless

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of aloof Watson was accused of being aloof and out of touch and the team’s management was publicly roasted by a furious Phil Mickelson in the Sunday night press conference. Don Riddell, CNN Money, 25 Sep. 2025 In fact, despite playing one of her most aloof characters yet, the real Roberts starts to tear up when Sevigny talks about admiring her. Ramin Setoodeh, Variety, 18 Sep. 2025 The agog kept being met by the aloof. Anthony Lane, New Yorker, 18 Sep. 2025 But others, including several students who spoke to the Free Press, were critical of her tenure, describing her as aloof and unwilling to meet with students, faculty and others. John Wisely, Freep.com, 18 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for aloof
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aloof
Adjective
  • Burns decided to take on the Revolution as his next project in the waning months of the Obama administration, a moment that may feel as distant from today as the war itself.
    Carlo Versano, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Oct. 2025
  • Our dream of going back to the moon and onto Mars and more distant worlds—not least to ensure our species’ survival before the sun flames out and engulfs most of the solar system—can be seen as just one more step in evolution’s long march.
    Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 22 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • But in listening to separate end-of-season reflections from Tucker and Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer, both sides sound detached.
    Patrick Mooney, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
  • In the detached home market, there are 9,001 active listings year-to-date, according to the Denver Metro Association of Realtors’ monthly report.
    Sara B. Hansen, Denver Post, 10 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Take a break from basic vanilla and step into fall with a refreshing apple cold foam.
    Kylie Petty, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Oct. 2025
  • Pumpkin spice beverages and apple cider are popular fall drinks that can be enjoyed warm or cold.
    Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 21 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • And someone who is a great listener, respectful, caring, chilled out, someone who supports my dreams – and is cool with my chaos!
    Tracy Wright, FOXNews.com, 26 Oct. 2025
  • Traditionally, potatoes sprout in cool weather in late winter or spring.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 26 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Aloof.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aloof. Accessed 27 Oct. 2025.

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