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Word

apathetic

adjective B2
/ˌæpəˈθɛtɪk/

Meanings

adjective

Not interested or enthusiastic; not caring much about something.

apathetic: Not interested or enthusiastic; not caring much about something.
adjective

Showing little emotion or concern, especially about important matters.

apathetic: Showing little emotion or concern, especially about important matters.

Definition

Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.

If someone is apathetic, they do not seem to care about what is happening or what they should do. It often suggests a lack of feeling or motivation rather than active dislike. You can be apathetic about a topic, a goal, or other people’s problems.

Examples

  • He felt apathetic about the election and didn’t vote.
  • The team grew apathetic after losing three games in a row.
  • She sounded apathetic when I asked about her new job.
  • Don’t be apathetic about your health—book the appointment.

Common mistake

Learners often confuse apathetic with sympathetic, but apathetic means not caring, while sympathetic means showing understanding or compassion.