What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
indifferent
Example
I'm indifferent to what we have for dinner tonight. [indifferent: adjective]
Example
The judge remained indifferent to the defendant's plea. [indifferent: adjective]
uninterested
Example
She seemed uninterested in the lecture and kept checking her phone. [uninterested: adjective]
Example
He was uninterested in attending the party and stayed home instead. [uninterested: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Uninterested is more commonly used than indifferent in everyday language. Uninterested is a more straightforward term that conveys a clear lack of interest or engagement, while indifferent can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between indifferent and uninterested?
Both indifferent and uninterested are relatively formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional settings. However, indifferent may be perceived as more formal due to its broader range of meanings and usage.