Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective disinterested contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of disinterested are aloof, detached, incurious, indifferent, and unconcerned. While all these words mean "not showing or feeling interest," 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

When can aloof be used instead of disinterested?

The words aloof and disinterested are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, aloof suggests a cool reserve arising from a sense of superiority or disdain for inferiors or from shyness.

aloof from his coworkers

When could detached be used to replace disinterested?

The words detached and disinterested can be used in similar contexts, but detached implies an objective attitude achieved through absence of prejudice or selfishness.

observed family gatherings with detached amusement

When is incurious a more appropriate choice than disinterested?

In some situations, the words incurious and disinterested are roughly equivalent. However, incurious implies an inability to take a normal interest due to dullness of mind or to self-centeredness.

incurious about the world

In what contexts can indifferent take the place of disinterested?

While the synonyms indifferent and disinterested are close in meaning, indifferent implies neutrality of attitude from lack of inclination, preference, or prejudice.

indifferent to the dictates of fashion

When might unconcerned be a better fit than disinterested?

The synonyms unconcerned and disinterested 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 disinterested Western audiences absorb coverage of militant acts by a narrow segment of the Palestinian population while the intellect and insights of the rest are largely ignored by disinterested media institutions. Micah Danney, New York Daily News, 5 July 2025 The scene is absurd to the point of funny—four men in tight quarters with an exposed corpse and yet affably disinterested. Diana Arterian june 16, Literary Hub, 16 June 2025 The industry struggled to find the language to convey to fans that, like the Beatles, the two studio explorers were holed up improvising new recording techniques and increasingly disinterested in being performing entities. Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 12 June 2025 That prolonged decline may have caused previously eager buyers to become disinterested. Frank Cappelleri, CNBC, 11 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for disinterested
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disinterested
Adjective
  • Warren, in his typically nonchalant fashion, downplayed his early impact in the Colts’ offense.
    James Boyd, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Faced with punishment from school administrators, Westman appeared alternately nervous and nonchalant, the former employee said.
    Tim Stelloh, NBC news, 29 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • For a longer journey, Johnson is impartial to his Osprey Aether pack for its airscape back panels, floating lids, and signature Fit on the Fly adjustments.
    Jillian Dara, Travel + Leisure, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Our department is committed to a thorough and impartial review.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Perfect for long flights, city strolls, or casual dinners, the moisture-wicking fabric is stretchy, breathable, and even offers UPF 40+ sun protection.
    Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 7 Sep. 2025
  • Keep it casual in sneakers, or wear it with suede ankle booties to the pumpkin patch.
    Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • With the actress as the first spokesperson, the program will give women equitable access to menopause support and resources in hopes of ending the stigma surrounding the pivotal stage of life.
    Vanessa Etienne, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025
  • Their guidance offers a path to practices that are equitable, competitive and fiscally responsible.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Taylor’s being a drill sergeant, but Belly and Anika are uninterested in going viral.
    Sara Netzley, EW.com, 20 Aug. 2025
  • Both artists were uninterested in the delusions that come with being attached to the mainstream music industry.
    Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 6 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • The New York Federal Reserve’s measure of Global Supply Chain Pressure showed that July’s level of stress decreased, and is approximately now equal to the long-term average.
    George Calhoun, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025
  • The rollbacks apply to diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, which often help people of color, LGBTQ students and low-income residents have equal access to educational opportunities.
    Elizabeth Hernandez, Denver Post, 7 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Disinterested.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disinterested. Accessed 12 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on disinterested

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!