Reading Theme:
Indifferent: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：not caring (indifferent)
indifferent
/ɪnˈdɪf.ər.ənt/
adj.
not caring if something is good or bad, or if it happens or not; having no interest.
not caring
➕
/nɒt ˈkeər.ɪŋ/
adj.
Showing a lack of interest or concern; being neutral and unaffected by choices or outcomes.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'indifferens': 'in-' (not) + 'differens' (differing), meaning not differing or neutral.
💡 Mnemonic
IN different choices, you don't care – that's INDIFFERENT.
📖 Example
When my friends asked which restaurant I preferred, I just gave an indifferent shrug because I really didn't mind either way.
This illustrates indifference through a shrug when faced with a choice between options.
🔗 Collocations
indifferent to – showing no interest or concern about something
remain indifferent – to continue showing no reaction or preference
indifferent attitude – a demeanor of apathy or lack of engagement
🔄 Synonyms
apathetic (adj.) – showing little or no emotion or interest
unconcerned (adj.) – not worried or interested in something
nonchalant (adj.) – behaving in a calm manner, showing little interest
🚫 Antonyms
interested (adj.) – showing curiosity or concern about something
passionate (adj.) – having strong feelings or enthusiasm
engaged (adj.) – involved or attentive to something
🌱 Derivatives
indifference (n.) – the state of being indifferent; lack of interest or concern
📖 Cultural Story
Originating from Latin 'indifferens', used in medieval philosophy to denote neutrality or lack of preference. It entered English in the 14th century, evolving to describe emotional detachment or apathy in modern contexts.
Meaning 2：unsympathetic (indifferent)
indifferent
/ɪnˈdɪf.ər.ənt/
adj.
not caring about other people's feelings or needs; not showing any sympathy.
unsympathetic
➕
/ʌnˈsɪm.pə.θet.ɪk/
adj.
Lacking concern for others' feelings or needs; showing no empathy or compassion.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
She was upset about losing the game, but her teammate remained indifferent and just walked away.
This shows indifference through a lack of sympathy towards someone else's distress.
🔗 Collocations
indifferent towards – showing no sympathy or care for someone
coldly indifferent – being apathetic in a harsh or unfeeling way
socially indifferent – displaying a lack of concern in social interactions
🔄 Synonyms
🚫 Antonyms
compassionate (adj.) – feeling or showing sympathy and concern for others
empathetic (adj.) – understanding and sharing the feelings of others
caring (adj.) – displaying kindness and concern for people
🌱 Derivatives
indifferently (adv.) – in an indifferent manner; without interest or sympathy
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