brutal indifference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "brutal indifference" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is most commonly used in a figurative sense to describe a state of being uncaring or unfeeling. Here is an example: "The politician's decisions were met with brutal indifference from the public, showing their lack of concern for the well-being of their constituents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"You've killed innocent women and children with brutal indifference.

The New Yorker

And yet the brutal indifference of the Egyptian government toward its people was unchanged.

The New Yorker

Seen from Central Park the complex bears down on pedestrians with brutal indifference.

The New York Times - Arts

This is a man who routinely breaks fanboys' hearts with his casual sarcasm and an almost brutal indifference to the film that made him.

The Guardian - Film

He also shows how the sundry couplings constantly lead to remorse, regret, a puzzled tristesse or a brutal indifference to the object of passion.

The Guardian

The story of the good Samaritan, in the hands of Franklin Graham, is conscripted as propaganda for the superiority of Christian compassion to the brutal indifference of other religions - almost the opposite of the purpose of the story.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Undo the brutal and evil indifference to the suffering of the people of Congo, the women in particular.

Huffington Post

DONALD de FANO Somerset, Mass., Oct. 31, 2011 To the Editor: Occupy Wall Street faces brutal attrition by weather and indifference in the coming months unless it takes these steps: First, declare victory in getting the movement known throughout the nation and the world.

The New York Times

The US government so far has reacted with what appears to be complete and utter indifference to the brutal slaying of one of its citizens.

Huffington Post

The very existence of favelas has always been a testament to Brazil's often brutal inequalities and the state's indifference toward the poor.

Los Angeles Times

"Even if one accepts that some of it was inevitable, what was so unfortunate was what I can only describe as the indifference and at times almost brutal contempt for those who lost their jobs," he said.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "brutal indifference" to describe situations where the lack of concern is not only present but also shockingly harsh or insensitive. It's stronger than simple indifference.

Common error

Avoid using "brutal indifference" when a situation calls for a milder expression of disinterest. This phrase carries a heavy connotation of cruelty and should be reserved for truly egregious cases of neglect or apathy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "brutal indifference" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object or subject complement in a sentence. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it describes a state of extreme apathy or lack of concern. It strongly emphasizes the severity of the indifference.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "brutal indifference" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a shocking lack of concern or empathy. As Ludwig AI indicates, it’s often used figuratively to emphasize the severity of apathy. Its frequent appearance in news and media sources highlights its role in condemning situations marked by extreme neglect. When using this phrase, be mindful of its strong connotation and reserve it for contexts where such intensity is warranted. Alternatives like "callous disregard" or "heartless neglect" offer varying shades of meaning to suit different situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

callous disregard

Emphasizes the lack of consideration and empathy.

heartless neglect

Highlights the absence of compassion and active failure to care.

cold-blooded apathy

Stresses the unemotional and calculated nature of the indifference.

extreme insensitivity

Focuses on the lack of awareness or concern for others' feelings.

willful disregard

Implies a conscious and intentional choice to ignore or dismiss something important.

sheer callousness

Highlights the utter lack of sympathy or compassion.

unfeeling neglect

Emphasizes the absence of emotion and the failure to provide necessary care.

merciless disregard

Highlights the lack of compassion and the harshness of the indifference.

complete disinterest

Focuses on the absence of any interest or concern.

utter detachment

Stresses the lack of emotional connection or involvement.

FAQs

How can I use "brutal indifference" in a sentence?

You can use "brutal indifference" to describe a shocking lack of concern or empathy. For instance, "The company's "brutal indifference" to the environmental damage caused public outrage."

What are some alternatives to "brutal indifference"?

Alternatives include "callous disregard", "heartless neglect", or "cold-blooded apathy", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "brutal indifference" in formal writing?

Yes, "brutal indifference" is appropriate for formal writing when describing a severe lack of concern. However, ensure the context warrants such a strong expression.

What's the difference between "brutal indifference" and simple indifference?

"Brutal indifference" implies a harsh and shocking lack of concern, whereas simple "indifference" merely suggests a lack of interest or care.