apathetic
ap-uh-THET-ik
/ˌæpəˈθɛtɪk/
Showing or feeling no interest, enthusiasm, or concern; completely indifferent.
Conveys passive disinterest, lethargy, or unresponsiveness.
The story behind the word. Coined in the 18th century as the adjective for apathy, describing individuals devoid of emotional drive or concern.
Word relationships
- indifferent: Indifferent means having no preference, while apathetic implies a lack of emotional energy altogether.
- passionate: Passionate implies intense emotion and drive, the direct opposite of apathetic flatness.
Commonly confused with
- empathetic: Empathetic feels deeply with others; apathetic feels nothing for anyone.
Word family
- apathy (noun): Lack of feeling or interest.
- apathetically (adverb): In an apathetic manner.
Collocations
- apathetic attitude
- apathetic public
- remain apathetic
- feel apathetic
Idioms & expressions
- apathetic response
Example sentences
- "The students remained completely apathetic during the lecture, staring blankly out the window." Education observation
- "An apathetic public allows corruption to flourish without accountability." Sociological commentary
Memory hook
Apathetic = A PAT ON THE BACK won't move them, because they don't care. Emotionally flat and unconcerned.
When not to use
Do not use if the subject is hostile or angry; hostility is not apathy.
Fun facts
- Psychiatrists sometimes treat 'apathetic syndrome' as a distinct symptom of neurological conditions or burnout.
Related words
Explore more words
apathy, indifferent, listless, blase, lethargic, inattention
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