The word "indifference" is spelled with 4 syllables, and the emphasis is on the second syllable. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ɪnˈdɪfərəns/. The initial "i" is pronounced as short "ih" sound, followed by "n" and "d" sounds. The "if" in the middle is pronounced with a long "e" sound, which is then followed by the "ər" sound, which is pronounced like "uh." Finally, the word ends with the "ns" sound. Despite its complex spelling, "indifference" is an important word that is commonly used to describe a lack of concern or interest in something.
Indifference is a noun that refers to the lack of interest, concern, or sympathy towards something or someone. It characterizes a state of being apathetic, inattentive, or unconcerned. Indifference often manifests in a disinterested or detached attitude, where one demonstrates a lack of emotional response or active participation.
Indifference can be observed in various contexts, such as personal relationships, societal issues, or moral dilemmas. It denotes a state of neutrality or nonchalance, showing a lack of preference or bias. Indifference can arise when individuals feel unaffected by a particular matter or believe it is of little importance or consequence.
This term can also describe an absence of sensitivity or empathy towards the feelings or suffering of others. It reflects a diminished capacity for compassion and an unwillingness to engage emotionally with others' experiences or struggles. Indifference can foster an environment of emotional distance and can hinder the development of meaningful relationships or collective action.
The concept of indifference is often contrasted with empathy, sympathy, or active engagement. It carries negative connotations, as it implies a failure to acknowledge or address issues that warrant attention or action. Indifference can contribute to the perpetuation of injustice, inequality, or social apathy if not challenged or confronted.
Carelessness; unconcern; neutrality of mind between persons or things.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "indifference" is derived from the Latin word "indifferentia", which is a combination of the prefix "in-" (meaning "not" or "without") and the adjective "differentia" (meaning "difference" or "distinction"). In Latin, "indifferentia" referred to a state or quality of being unaffected by or impartial towards something. This Latin term was later adopted into English as "indifference", retaining its basic meaning of a lack of interest, concern, or emotional involvement in a particular matter.