# indifference

/ˌɪnˈdɪfɝəns/ (US) · /ɪndˈɪfɹəns/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/indifference
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a lack of interest or care about something. You feel this when you do not have a strong opinion and do not care what happens.

For teachers: a state of being unconcerned or having no particular interest or sympathy. Often implies a cold or callous lack of emotional investment in a situation.

## Examples

- He showed total indifference to the news.
- The public's indifference toward the local election resulted in the lowest voter turnout in the city's history.
- The philosopher argued that the greatest threat to justice is not active hatred, but rather a cold indifference to the suffering of others.

## Pitfalls

- Not "his indifference about the rules" but "his indifference to the rules" — Indifference is conventionally followed by 'to' or 'toward' rather than 'about'.

## Usage notes

- Commonly paired with the preposition 'to' or 'toward' to indicate the object of the lack of interest.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.