complete indifference

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complete indifference" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of total lack of interest or concern about something. Example: "Her complete indifference to the situation was evident when she failed to respond to any of the urgent messages."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Complete indifference to everything that is unrelated to ZT".

The New Yorker

A matter of complete indifference to me, I needn't tell you.

The New Yorker

It seemed to be a matter of complete indifference to Tanya what they thought of her.

The New Yorker

Jackson also brought patronage politics with him, along with a complete indifference to ideology.

The New York Times - Books

The government responded with complete indifference, which will likely be the reaction of investors.

The Guardian - Business

A red and black Albanian flag was set on fire, with policemen looking away with complete indifference.

Independent

"The Christian vote will be lost because of the government's complete indifference to the positions of Pope John Paul II".

The New York Times

Though he approached both musicians before resurrecting the Pumpkins name, he was "met with complete indifference," he said.

The Guardian - Music

Unemployment figures out this week will reverse a decades long trend of complete indifference in the City.

The Guardian - Business

An alpha beauty's complete indifference to the consternation of her mate may mean that he's easily moved to consternation.

The New Yorker

Hurries for the train back to town where it is a matter of complete indifference whether you hit a ball or not.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "complete indifference" to clearly convey a total lack of concern or interest in a situation. For impact, follow it with a specific example of the behavior or inaction that demonstrates this indifference.

Common error

Avoid using "complete indifference" when you mean a lack of knowledge or understanding. Indifference implies awareness but a lack of concern, whereas ignorance implies a lack of awareness itself.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complete indifference" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject of a sentence. It denotes a state of utter lack of interest or concern, as seen in Ludwig's examples from various sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

4%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "complete indifference" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that conveys a total lack of interest or concern. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples confirms that its purpose is often to express disapproval or highlight a deficiency in empathy or responsibility. As Ludwig AI pointed out, this phrase is versatile, appearing in diverse contexts from news reports to academic writing. When using "complete indifference", ensure that it aligns with the intended message and is not mistaken for ignorance. Alternatives such as "utter disinterest" or "total apathy" can provide nuanced variations of the same sentiment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete lack of interest

Rephrases the original with a more explicit structure.

utter disinterest

Emphasizes a complete lack of interest.

total apathy

Highlights a lack of feeling or emotion.

consummate uninterest

Adds an element of perfection or mastery to the lack of interest.

sheer unconcern

Stresses a lack of worry or anxiety.

absolute detachment

Focuses on emotional distance.

stony impassivity

Suggests a cold and emotionless state.

icy nonchalance

Implies a cool and casual lack of concern.

studied disregard

Highlights a deliberate act of ignoring something.

blank unresponsiveness

Focuses on a lack of reaction or response.

FAQs

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

You can use "complete indifference" to describe someone's lack of interest or concern about something. For example: "His "complete indifference" to the suffering of others was shocking."

What phrases are similar to "complete indifference"?

Similar phrases include "utter disinterest", "total apathy", and "sheer unconcern". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever appropriate to show "complete indifference"?

Showing "complete indifference" can be perceived negatively in situations where empathy or concern is expected. However, it may be appropriate when dealing with irrelevant distractions or manipulative behavior.

What is the difference between "complete indifference" and "mild interest"?

"Complete indifference" signifies a total lack of interest, while "mild interest" indicates a slight degree of curiosity or engagement. They represent opposite ends of the spectrum of interest.