Apathy

usgb/ˈæpəθi/
noun

A lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.

She listened to his excuses with apathy.
Visual representation of "apathy" - A lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern

Often appears as...

  • show apathy
  • feel apathy
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "apathy"
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Not Caring

Use 'apathy' when someone doesn't care enough to respond or take interest in something.

Illustration for Not Caring
Despite the team's loss, there was an air of apathy among the fans.
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Emotionally Neutral

'Apathy' suggests a neutral emotion, rather than a strong feeling like hate or disgust.

Illustration for Emotionally Neutral
He met the news of his business's failure with surprising apathy.
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Common Misuse

Don’t confuse 'apathy' with 'sympathy' or 'empathy'; it means the lack of feeling, not sharing it.

Illustration for Common Misuse
Her apathy towards the plight of the homeless was unexpected, as she normally shows much empathy.
Word comparison image

Compare with

concerndetachdisinterestennuiidleindifferencelethargypassivitysensitivity
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Visual representation of the word "Apathy"

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