noun

indifference

in-DIF-runss/ɪnˈdɪfrəns/

Absence of interest, concern, or preference.

The customer's indifference contrasts with the assistant's enthusiastic presentation of the mugs.

An enthusiastic shop assistant presents two ceramic mugs to a customer who barely attends to the demonstration.

Etymology

inLatinnot

+differLatindiffer, set apart

+enceLatinstate or quality

The underlying idea is a lack of difference: neither option stands apart as preferable. A word for neutrality or impartiality developed into one for apathy and lack of concern.

In context

ThinkTech Hawaii11:11

sovereign indifference coldness and scorn yet they persevered

'The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro' by Frederick Douglass (Navigating The Journey)

More examples

He expresses indifference about which restaurant we choose.
She shrugs with indifference when I mention the new rules.
His apparent indifference hides how much he actually cares.

Forms

indifferent adjective — Showing no interest, concern, or preference.

Similar words

apathy: Suggests a broader lack of motivation or emotional response.
unconcern: Emphasizes freedom from worry rather than lack of interest.
nonchalance: Describes a casually calm manner, sometimes hiding real interest.