callous indifference

USAGE SUMMARY

"callous indifference" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a lack of empathy or concern for another person's feelings or situation, such as when a friend is going through a difficult time and the other person responds with an apathetic attitude. For example, "I told her about my troubles, but she seemed to regard them with callous indifference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Callous indifference?

The Washington Post

WikiLeaks' attitude on that issue was callous indifference.

The New York Times

Its objective pose is a cover for callous indifference.

The New York Times - Arts

In Ms. Macklin's cool performance, we learn that men have no monopoly on callous indifference.

The New York Times

But need this involve treating children with such callous indifference and even cruelty?

Independent

Ms. Gillibrand recalled Dr. King's commitment to "remove the callous indifference to the poor".

The New York Times

This callous indifference to others sense of reverance extends even beyond death.

The Guardian - Opinion

It required a ruthlessness in dealing with investors and a callous indifference to those they duped".

The Guardian

Or is it just a question of callous indifference to our suffering?

The Guardian

But the plaintiffs accuse school officials of "callous indifference" to the children's privacy.

The New York Times

President Bush's callous indifference to providing a little extra help for children in need is wrong.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "callous indifference", ensure the context clearly supports the presence of both a lack of feeling and a demonstrable lack of concern or action. Avoid using it loosely to describe simple disagreement or mild disinterest.

Common error

While "callous indifference" effectively conveys a severe lack of empathy, be mindful of its impact. Overusing it in emotionally charged writing can dilute its significance and appear as overly dramatic or biased. Use it judiciously when the situation truly warrants such a strong term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "callous indifference" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject or object within a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is often used to describe a severe lack of empathy or concern. Examples show it characterizing behavior or attitudes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Academia

22%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "callous indifference" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that expresses a strong lack of empathy or concern. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it's widely employed across various contexts, especially in news and media and academic writing. The phrase carries a neutral to formal tone, making it suitable for analytical and critical discussions. It's important to use it judiciously, ensuring the context warrants the strong negative connotation. Related phrases like "heartless disregard" or "uncaring attitude" can offer nuanced alternatives depending on the specific emotional tone you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

heartless disregard

Emphasizes the emotional cruelty and lack of consideration.

brutal disregard

Highlights the cruelty and lack of respect or consideration.

uncaring attitude

Highlights the dismissive nature and lack of sympathy.

insensitive neglect

Combines a lack of sensitivity with a failure to care properly.

cold heartedness

Highlights a lack of warmth and compassion.

detached unconcern

Stresses the emotional distance and lack of worry.

emotionless neglect

Focuses on the absence of emotion and failure to care.

apathy

Focuses on a lack of interest or concern, simplifying the original phrase.

insensitivity

Short form emphasizing a lack of emotional understanding.

clinical detachment

Suggests a cold, emotionless separation from emotional involvement.

FAQs

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

You can use "callous indifference" to describe a situation where someone shows a striking lack of concern for the suffering or needs of others. For example, "The company's "callous indifference" to the environmental impact of its operations was widely criticized."

What are some synonyms for "callous indifference"?

Alternatives to "callous indifference" include "heartless disregard", "uncaring attitude", and "insensitive neglect". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does "callous indifference" imply beyond simple disinterest?

"Callous indifference" suggests not just a lack of interest but an active disregard or insensitivity toward the well-being of others. It implies a cold, almost cruel lack of empathy, going beyond mere apathy.

Is "callous indifference" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "callous indifference" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when discussing ethical issues, social commentary, or critical analysis. It's a strong phrase that can add weight to your argument when used appropriately.