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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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don't really care

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Travelers don't really care.

News & Media

The New York Times

I don't really care".

News & Media

The New York Times

You don't really care.

Governments don't really care.

News & Media

The Guardian

Readers don't really care".

Moreover, many don't really care.

News & Media

The New York Times

We both don't really care.

News & Media

Independent

"But I don't really care.

News & Media

The New York Times

"Well, I don't really care.

"Look, I don't really care".

News & Media

The New Yorker

Actually, they don't really care.

News & Media

The New York Times
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Place "really" between the auxiliary verb "don't" and the main verb "care" to maintain standard idiomatic flow.

Common error

Avoid using "don't really care" in professional evaluative reports where precision is required; instead use more descriptive terms like "negligible importance" or "outside the scope".

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

96%

Authority and reliability

4.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "don't really care" functions as a negative verb phrase modified by an adverb of degree. In sentences, it acts as the predicate to express a lack of concern, interest or preference. According to Ludwig, it is frequently used to convey a relaxed or indifferent attitude in response to external opinions or events.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Sports

15%

Magazine

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Academic

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In conclusion, "don't really care" is a versatile and highly common expression found across major English-speaking media. Ludwig AI shows that the phrase is a standard way to communicate indifference or apathy in a relatively neutral tone. While the addition of "really" can act as a softener, making the speaker seem less dismissive, the phrase remains best suited for conversational or journalistic contexts rather than formal documentation. When seeking more professional or intense alternatives, writers should consider the specific nuances of tone required for their audience.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "don't really care"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "am not bothered", "don't particularly mind" or "am indifferent".

Is it "really don't care" or "don't really care"?

Both are correct, but "don't really care" often acts as a softener (meaning "I don't care much"), whereas "really don't care" usually emphasizes the depth of the indifference.

Is "don't really care" polite enough for business?

It is generally considered too informal or dismissive for business. A more professional choice would be "is not a priority" or "have no preference".

What is the difference between "don't care" and "don't really care"?

Adding "really" often functions as a pragmatic marker that lessens the impact of the statement, making it sound less confrontational than the blunt "don't care".

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Source & Trust

96%

Authority and reliability

4.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: