indifferent tones

USAGE SUMMARY

"indifferent tones" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiomatic phrase that can be used to describe someone speaking in an apathetic, unenthusiastic, or disinterested manner. For example, "He responded to my questions in indifferent tones."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Make contributions, but say them in indifferent tones.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

John McCain repeated the shining city line, though in a rote tone, in an indifferent speech.

The New Yorker

("Foolish concocting, indifferent acting, slow pacing and uncertain toning," Times arts editor Charles Champlin wrote of the film in 1976).

Los Angeles Times

." His eyes narrowed, but his tone, far from being intense, was indifferent, dully objective, as though he were discussing some character in a play — a part he was weary of portraying yet was trapped in by contract.

The New Yorker

The purpose of "King of Bain" is to portray Romney as a heartless, tone-deaf destroyer of jobs who is indifferent to the human cost of the recent economic upheaval in heartland American communities.

The New Yorker

Why his tone of indignation, as if everyone else were sitting around comfortably, indifferent to Stalin's crimes, and he alone remembered?

The New Yorker

With the tone of a distant if kindly uncle, Mr Putin wrote: "We are by no means indifferent to developments in united Europe".

The New York Times

Others were indifferent.

The Economist

"The governments are indifferent.

The New York Times

Good, bad, indifferent.

The New Yorker

Connie is casually indifferent.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing character interactions, use "indifferent tones" to subtly convey a character's disinterest or detachment, adding depth to their portrayal without explicit explanation.

Common error

Be aware that "indifferent tones" suggest a lack of concern or emotion, whereas a neutral tone simply lacks strong emotion. Using them interchangeably can misrepresent the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "indifferent tones" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It describes the quality of someone's voice or manner of speaking. As Ludwig AI points out, it’s used to characterize a lack of enthusiasm or emotion in how something is said. Ludwig provides example from WikiHow and NewYorker.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

33%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "indifferent tones" functions as an adjectival phrase used to describe someone's speech as lacking emotion or interest. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, even if it's not particularly common in writing. According to Ludwig, the phrase sees usage in the media. To enhance your writing, consider using "indifferent tones" to subtly convey a character's disinterest. Be sure to differentiate indifference from neutrality to avoid misrepresenting the speaker's true emotional state.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

apathetic voice

Focuses on the apathy conveyed through the voice.

unemotional delivery

Highlights the absence of emotion in the way something is said.

detached manner of speaking

Emphasizes the speaker's emotional distance.

dispassionate expression

Highlights the lack of passion in the speaker's delivery.

listless intonation

Focuses on the lack of energy and enthusiasm in the voice's rise and fall.

flat affect in speech

Describes a monotone and unemotional quality in speech.

lackluster vocalization

Emphasizes the dull and uninspired quality of the spoken words.

wooden tone

Uses "wooden" to describe a stiff and unnatural tone.

unconcerned inflection

Focuses on the lack of concern conveyed through changes in tone.

half-hearted vocal tone

Highlights the lack of commitment and enthusiasm.

FAQs

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

You can use "indifferent tones" to describe someone's speech when they are not showing any interest or emotion. For example: "He delivered the news in "indifferent tones", as if he didn't care about the outcome."

What are some synonyms for "indifferent tones"?

Alternatives to "indifferent tones" include "apathetic voice", "unemotional delivery", or "detached manner of speaking". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when someone speaks in "indifferent tones"?

Speaking in "indifferent tones" suggests the person is either uninterested, apathetic, or trying to appear detached from the subject matter. It can indicate a lack of emotional investment or concern.

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

While "indifferent tones" can be used in formal writing, consider the context. It's most effective when describing a character's behavior or reporting on observed reactions. It may be less appropriate in analytical or persuasive writing where objectivity is paramount.