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 Or disinterested, or confidence-inspiring at all, really. Colin Dwyer, NPR, 11 Mar. 2025 To evaluate this offer, Aspen’s board formed a special committee of three independent and disinterested directors. Kenneth Squire, CNBC, 1 Mar. 2025 If the company were required to get the vote of 50% of disinterested shareholders, Elliott would need to have its position in common stock to vote. Kenneth Squire, CNBC, 1 Mar. 2025 Fortunately, in Delaware, where the company is incorporated, a tender offer requires at least 50% of disinterested outstanding shareholders to approve the transaction. Kenneth Squire, CNBC, 1 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for disinterested
Recent Examples of Synonyms for disinterested
Adjective
  • Their dominance was complete and almost nonchalant.
    Michael Walker, New York Times, 21 Apr. 2025
  • Sure, your cat may look rather nonchalant about it.
    Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • When discussing the current war, Finkel shifts from impartial historian to passionate accuser, condemning Putin’s aggression as an act of genocide.
    Foreign Affairs, Foreign Affairs, 22 Apr. 2025
  • The government counters that the independence requirement means the task force is supposed to make recommendations based on their impartial medical and public-health judgments.
    Maureen Groppe, USA Today, 20 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The Retreat Linen Top and matching Mid-rise Shorts, both over 40 percent off, can be styled together for a polished resort outfit or worn separately with basics for casual, everyday wear.
    Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 20 Apr. 2025
  • As the Sunday evening set’s start time lingered over his head, Junior H traded his casual, pink jersey for an all-white outfit that would contrast his band’s all-black attire.
    Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 19 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Gender equity creates greater economies, improved communities and a more equitable world.
    Shikha Bajaj, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2025
  • Again this year, Albany’s policymakers are choosing to ignore the constitutional promise of adequate and equitable school funding.
    Michael A. Rebell, New York Daily News, 25 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Confused and clearly uninterested, Benson shut his advances down — but not before Stabler temporarily came to and took a clear side in the brisket conversation.
    Alex Ross, People.com, 18 Apr. 2025
  • My best guess for why HBO is airing it second is that most people hearing the subject will either be uninterested or know the details already, in which case: Why bother?
    Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 15 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Montana West Small Crossbody RFID-blocking Cellphone Wallet $18 $16 at Amazon Double discounted to just $16 in a gorgeous emerald green shade, this feminine crossbody phone purse is equal parts fashionable accessory and functional bag.
    Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 23 Apr. 2025
  • The credit is equal to 20% of the amount farmers spend.
    Keith M. Phaneuf, Hartford Courant, 23 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Disinterested.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/disinterested. Accessed 4 May. 2025.

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