disinterest in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "disinterest in" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a lack of interest in something. For example, "John showed a disinterest in politics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Carmona's disinterest in school was not a disinterest in learning.

The New Yorker

Take, for instance, her disinterest in Instagram.

The New Yorker

Not easy given the island's singular disinterest in entrepreneurial activity.

The Economist

Chaplin's complete disinterest in collaboration would have prevented it".

The New York Times

A casual disinterest in sales figures – is this for real?

The Guardian - Music

It was an accident, but Maria's disinterest in admitting any fault makes her seem vicious.

The New Yorker

Tinkler had bigger problems, leading to his disinterest in the Jets.

The Guardian - Sport

Arfin's glibness about this country's racial realities suggested a disinterest in history and absence of empathy.

The New Yorker

The firm is one of the few exceptions to the venture world's disinterest in hiring women.

The New York Times - Tech

Psychological fatigue, a growing disinterest in sexual behaviour with a particular partner, sometimes constitutes a problem.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Straus's disinterest in the merits of serialism for the purposes of his study is useful.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger synonyms like "apathy" or "indifference" if you want to emphasize a more pronounced lack of concern.

Common error

Avoid using "disinterest in" when you mean 'uninterested'. "Disinterest" implies a lack of bias, whereas "uninterested" correctly describes a lack of interest. For example, say "She was uninterested in the lecture" not "She had disinterest in the lecture" if you mean she wasn't engaged by it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "disinterest in" functions primarily as a noun phrase followed by a preposition, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a verb or preposition. It describes the state of not being interested in something, as supported by Ludwig AI's analysis and the various examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

18%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "disinterest in" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote a lack of interest or concern. According to Ludwig, it is correct and applicable in various contexts. While sometimes confused with 'uninterested', "disinterest" accurately describes impartiality, whereas "uninterested" indicates a lack of enthusiasm. This phrase is commonly found in news, scientific literature, and general discussions, making it versatile for expressing a neutral or negative sentiment. When choosing between "disinterest in" and alternatives like "lack of interest in", consider the precise nuance you wish to convey. Remember to ensure clarity in your writing by distinguishing between "disinterest" (impartiality) and "uninterested" (lack of interest).

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of interest in

This alternative is more direct and emphasizes the absence of interest.

apathy towards

This alternative implies a stronger sense of indifference or lack of concern.

indifference to

This alternative suggests a neutral attitude and lack of emotional response.

unconcern about

This alternative highlights a lack of worry or care.

negligence toward

This alternative suggests a failure to give due attention or care.

detachment from

This alternative emphasizes a lack of emotional connection or involvement.

alienation from

This alternative implies a sense of estrangement or separation.

boredom with

This alternative suggests a feeling of weariness and lack of excitement.

passivity regarding

This alternative focuses on a lack of action or initiative.

nonchalance about

This alternative implies a casual lack of concern or enthusiasm.

FAQs

How can I use "disinterest in" in a sentence?

You can use "disinterest in" to describe a lack of interest in a particular subject or activity. For example, "His "disinterest in sports" was apparent."

What are some alternatives to "disinterest in"?

Alternatives include "lack of interest in", "apathy towards", or "indifference to", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "disinterest in" or "lack of interest in"?

Both "disinterest in" and "lack of interest in" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Lack of interest in" is often perceived as slightly more direct and common, but "disinterest in" is also widely accepted and used.

What's the difference between using "disinterest" and "uninterested"?

"Disinterest" signifies impartiality or objectivity, while "uninterested" means lacking interest. To express a lack of interest, "uninterested" is more accurate. For example, instead of saying someone has "disinterest in a topic", it's more accurate to say they are "uninterested in the topic".