indifferent response

USAGE SUMMARY

"indifferent response" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a response that was noncommittal and lacking in emotion. For example: When asked for his opinion on the matter, he gave an indifferent response.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

This slow, even indifferent response seemed to mock the petitioners' seriousness.

The New York Times

But in the United States the letter elicited what Mr. Alvarez described as a surprisingly indifferent response.

The New York Times

Survivors have come forward across the country with harrowing stories of assault followed by what they describe as an insensitive or indifferent response from college administrators.

Stanford University

"But I want to suggest that the movie's ability to foresee — even to welcome — a hostile or indifferent response counts in its favor.

The New York Times - Arts

The Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson's indifferent response last night to suggestions that Ferguson may come calling for Fernando Torres –"these things happen.

Independent

She had anticipated an indifferent response to the novels – she is remarkably unassuming – but instead there came "the massive amount of fans that I hadn't expected, and the massive amount of people who hated it, which I also didn't expect".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

While her plans are still being developed, Ms. Hardison said that the seemingly indifferent responses among companies to complaints of tokenism and lookism have become too insulting and destructive to ignore.

The New York Times

At the same time, evidence suggests that "satisficing" (i.e. giving indifferent responses) might be higher in telephone surveys (Martin, 2011).

Comparative Migration Studies

To calculate the average impact on satisfaction, it is necessary to add the attractive and one-dimensional columns and divide by the total number of attractive, one-dimensional, must-be and indifferent responses.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

Satisfaction status was measured using the dichotomy method and indifferent responses were not allowed.

BMC Health Services Research

The content and wording of the survey questions were intended to be somewhat provocative so that respondents would avoid neutral or indifferent responses (Box  1).

Health Research Policy and Systems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's reaction to important news or a significant event, use "indifferent response" to highlight a lack of expected emotional engagement.

Common error

While "indifferent response" is correct, overuse can make your writing monotonous. Consider synonyms like "apathetic reaction" or "lukewarm reply" to add variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "indifferent response" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "indifferent" modifies the noun "response". It describes the quality or nature of the response. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

28%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "indifferent response" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a reaction lacking interest or concern. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and utility across various contexts. It is particularly prevalent in News & Media, Science, and Academia, indicating its versatility and acceptance in both formal and informal settings. While synonyms such as "apathetic reaction" or "lukewarm reply" exist, "indifferent response" provides a clear and straightforward way to communicate a lack of emotional engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

apathetic reaction

Replaces "response" with "reaction" and "indifferent" with "apathetic" offering a slightly more clinical tone.

unenthusiastic reply

Substitutes "response" with "reply" and "indifferent" with "unenthusiastic", emphasizing the lack of excitement.

lukewarm reaction

Uses "lukewarm" to describe the reaction, indicating a lack of passion or enthusiasm.

lackluster answer

Replaces "response" with "answer" and "indifferent" with "lackluster", focusing on the uninspiring nature of the reply.

tepid acknowledgement

Uses "tepid" to describe the acknowledgement, suggesting a mild or half-hearted acceptance.

unmoved reaction

Focuses on the lack of emotional impact with "unmoved", indicating the reaction was without feeling.

nonchalant reply

Highlights the casual and unconcerned nature of the reply with "nonchalant".

disinterested reaction

Emphasizes the lack of interest in the reaction.

passive response

Indicates a lack of active engagement or involvement in the response.

uncaring reaction

Highlights the lack of concern or empathy in the reaction.

FAQs

How can I use "indifferent response" in a sentence?

You can use "indifferent response" to describe a reaction lacking concern or interest. For example: "The proposal was met with an "indifferent response" from the board members".

What's the difference between "indifferent response" and "apathetic response"?

Both phrases suggest a lack of interest, but "apathetic response" might imply a stronger sense of detachment or lack of feeling than an "indifferent response".

What are some synonyms for "indifferent response"?

Alternatives to "indifferent response" include "lukewarm reaction", "unenthusiastic reply", or "disinterested reaction", each carrying subtle differences in connotation.

Is it appropriate to use "indifferent response" in formal writing?

Yes, "indifferent response" is suitable for formal writing. However, ensure the context aligns with the formal tone. In some cases, a more nuanced term might be more appropriate.