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Synonym Chooser

How is the word apathetic distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of apathetic are impassive, phlegmatic, stoic, and stolid. While all these words mean "unresponsive to something that might normally excite interest or emotion," apathetic may imply a puzzling or deplorable indifference or inertness.

charitable appeals met an apathetic response

Where would impassive be a reasonable alternative to apathetic?

The meanings of impassive and apathetic largely overlap; however, impassive stresses the absence of any external sign of emotion in action or facial expression.

met the news with an impassive look

When can phlegmatic be used instead of apathetic?

In some situations, the words phlegmatic and apathetic are roughly equivalent. However, phlegmatic implies a temperament or constitution hard to arouse.

a phlegmatic man unmoved by tears

When might stoic be a better fit than apathetic?

The words stoic and apathetic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, stoic implies an apparent indifference to pleasure or especially to pain often as a matter of principle or self-discipline.

was resolutely stoic even in adversity

When is stolid a more appropriate choice than apathetic?

The words stolid and apathetic can be used in similar contexts, but stolid implies a habitual absence of interest, responsiveness, or curiosity.

stolid workers wedded to routine

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 apathetic Most Canadians have apathetic, if not negative, feelings about the monarchy, an institution that seems increasingly distant as the country’s cultural links to Great Britain grow weaker. Stephen Maher, Time, 27 May 2025 Now, Europe is faced with a U.S. government that is at best apathetic and at worst antagonistic and that appears set on unilaterally shifting the burden of the continent’s security onto its European allies, who must reorganize to fill the gaps. Sophia Besch, Foreign Affairs, 5 May 2025 No one wants to go on bad dates; few people think of themselves as apathetic conversationalists. Alex Abad-Santos, Vox, 3 May 2025 The second sees the lead detectives on the case (Ashley Walters and Faye Marsay) trying to get more information about Jamie and his victim at a chaotic middle school, the panning camera capturing apathetic teachers, kids glued to their phones and violent words and behavior. Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 11 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for apathetic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for apathetic
Adjective
  • At half-time, as Rayan Cherki enjoyed 15 minutes of nonchalant showboating, an altogether more ferocious warm-up was taking place just across the pitch.
    Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 27 June 2025
  • Actress January Jones channeled Isabel Marant’s nonchalant French-girl style by wearing an oversized sweater and cutoff jean shorts to a dinner hosted by the designer.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 12 June 2025
Adjective
  • The stoic Eleanor McCallister has crossed paths with Harry Vanderspeigle a few times over, but never has their reunion been so revealing and emotional.
    Nick Caruso, TVLine, 21 June 2025
  • Considering the stress of losing – the Braves lead the majors in one-run losses – the stoic manager might be ready to hang up his uniform.
    Dan Schlossberg, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
Adjective
  • Even casual users should take a moment to review their settings and chat history to make sure personal details aren’t being shared without their knowledge.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2025
  • The kitchen is bright and inviting, with a balcony that opens to the backyard and plenty of space for casual meals or entertaining.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 30 June 2025
Adjective
  • Los Angeles also has problems of crime and homelessness the city government seems uninterested in fixing.
    Michael Goldstein, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • Despite her Oscar win, Matlin would repeatedly have to advocate for herself in an industry seemingly uninterested in Deaf characters.
    Tim Grierson, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Apathetic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/apathetic. Accessed 5 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on apathetic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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