What's the difference between apathy and disinterest?

How is apathy different from disinterest?

How do I use apathy in a sentence?

Is apathy a common word in academic writing?

Is apathy common in academic writing?

← Dictionary

apathy

/ˈæpəθi/

IELTSAcademic

noun

A lack of interest, motivation, or concern.

She felt apathy about the election results.
His apathy made it hard to help him improve.
Public apathy slowed the new policy.

Adinary Nuance

Apathy differs from indifference by feeling numb, not just neutral choice. It is stronger than disinterest, which can be neutral. Choose apathy when describing a deep lack of motivation rather than casual preference.

In other languages

Spanish: apatía
Japanese: 無関心
Korean: 무관심
Vietnamese: sự bất động
Chinese: 冷漠

Common phrases

show apathy towardapathy toward changepolitical apathystudent apathy

Synonyms

indifference lack of interest disinterest detachment unconcern

Frequently asked questions

Is apathy formal or informal?: Is apathy formal or informal?
What's the difference between apathy and disinterest?: How is apathy different from disinterest?
How do I use apathy in a sentence?: How do I use apathy in a sentence?
Is apathy a common word in academic writing?: Is apathy common in academic writing?