Spanish word

desinterés

Pronunciation

IPA/desinteˈɾes/

Meaning

  • masculine nounindifference

Example

Su desinterés por el tema era evidente.

His indifference to the subject was evident.

Illustration for desinterés (indifference)

More examples

En la reunión se respiraba un desinterés general.

A general indifference could be felt at the meeting.

Core concept

Absence of curiosity or concern.

Common phrases

  • desinterés por

    indifference to

  • profundo desinterés

    profound indifference

Similar words

apatía: Emotional numbness and loss of interest that reduces motivation and feeling.
indiferencia: Neutral lack of feeling or concern toward events or people, showing little reaction.

Definition in Spanish

Falta o ausencia de curiosidad o motivación hacia alguien, algo o un asunto, que se manifiesta como indiferencia o desatención.

Word origin

Formed from des- 'without' and interés (from Latin interesse 'to be important'), literally 'without interest' and used for lack of motivation or curiosity.

Usage tips

  • In conversation, saying someone shows desinterés can sound blunt or dismissive, so Spanish speakers often soften it by giving a reason or a polite qualifier.

Other meanings

  • selflessnessnoun

Opposites

Related words

  • desinteresanteuninterestingadjective
  • desinteresadouninterestedadjective

Word lists with this word