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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective indifferent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of indifferent are aloof, detached, disinterested, incurious, and unconcerned. While all these words mean "not showing or feeling interest," indifferent implies neutrality of attitude from lack of inclination, preference, or prejudice.

indifferent to the dictates of fashion

In what contexts can aloof take the place of indifferent?

Although the words aloof and indifferent have much in common, 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 indifferent?

The synonyms detached and indifferent are sometimes interchangeable, but detached implies an objective attitude achieved through absence of prejudice or selfishness.

observed family gatherings with detached amusement

When can disinterested be used instead of indifferent?

The words disinterested and indifferent can be used in similar contexts, but 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 is it sensible to use incurious instead of indifferent?

While the synonyms incurious and indifferent are close in meaning, incurious implies an inability to take a normal interest due to dullness of mind or to self-centeredness.

incurious about the world

When might unconcerned be a better fit than indifferent?

In some situations, the words unconcerned and indifferent are roughly equivalent. However, 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 indifferent This new approach to the Endangered Species Act would be indifferent to either outcome, reflecting a deeper shift in how American political leaders view nature. Lois Parshley, The Atlantic, 25 Aug. 2025 Is the universe malicious, or merely indifferent? Jia Tolentino, New Yorker, 25 Aug. 2025 Yet polls also show that a majority of Israelis remain either indifferent to the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza or are in support of it, as dehumanization of Palestinians is widespread among large swaths of Israeli society. Asher Kaufman, The Conversation, 23 Aug. 2025 Punk is urban, decadent, and indifferent; hardcore is suburban, disciplined, and deadly earnest. Chris R. Morgan, The Washington Examiner, 22 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for indifferent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for indifferent
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
  • On a scale of one to five, an average or satisfactory experience is a three.
    Shep Hyken, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025
  • Of those, six — including five children — are in satisfactory condition.
    NBC News, 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
  • The Padres might come to regret trading Ryan Bergert and Stephen Kolek, but another trade deadline acquisition, Freddy Fermin, has provided a decent upgrade at a position of glaring weakness.
    Dennis Lin, New York Times, 10 Sep. 2025
  • One is the character of the factory owner, Baek Joo-sang, who has a very dark, hidden side to him, but who is also considered a good boss and decent person by the people around him.
    Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 9 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
  • That was followed by the Israeli-Gaza war, which to date has claimed the lives of around 64,000 Palestinians, including ordinary Gazans, according to the local health authority.
    Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 10 Sep. 2025
  • Joan and Luke had a love that was all fireworks and sexy dazzle; after Luke died, Joan married Larry, who was all ordinary-guy solidity.
    Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 10 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Indifferent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/indifferent. Accessed 13 Sep. 2025.

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