Apathetically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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apathetically

[หŒรฆp.ษ™หˆฮธet.ษช.kษ™l.i ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

used in a sentence

In an apathetic manner; showing little or no emotion or interest.

Synonyms

indifferently, passively, uninterested.

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Word Description / Examples
apathetically

Used to describe a lack of interest or enthusiasm in a way that shows one does not care about a situation or outcome.

  • He apathetically scrolled through his phone, ignoring the important news
  • She responded apathetically to the invitation, showing no excitement
indifferently

Used when someone shows no particular interest or concern in something, often implying neutrality or lack of preference.

  • She shrugged indifferently when asked about her weekend plans
  • He greeted everyone indifferently, as if their presence did not matter
uninterested

Used when someone shows no interest in something, suggesting boredom or a lack of curiosity.

  • The student appeared uninterested during the lecture, frequently checking the time
  • He was uninterested in the conversation and kept looking around the room
passively

Used to describe someone who allows things to happen without active response or resistance, often implying a lack of initiative.

  • He passively accepted the decision without arguing
  • She listened passively to the instructions, not engaging or asking questions

Examples of usage

  • She listened apathetically to the news.
  • He apathetically stared out the window.
  • The students reacted apathetically to the teacher's announcement.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Apathy can be a symptom of various psychological disorders, including depression and schizophrenia.
  • It often signifies emotional numbness or a diminished interest in activities that are typically enjoyable.
  • The concept can play a role in motivation theories, highlighting how lack of interest can affect behavior.

Popular Culture

  • The term appears often in songs and literature, often to express disinterest in societal issues or personal struggles.
  • Characters in movies sometimes display apathy to critique societal norms, showcasing cultural disillusionment.
  • It has been featured in TV shows like 'The Simpsons', often humorously illustrating characters' indifference.

Sociology

  • Apathy is often studied in social movements to understand why some people remain inactive despite significant issues.
  • In a group setting, apathy can spread through social contagion, affecting group dynamics and motivation.
  • Research suggests that feeling disconnected from a community can increase feelings of apathy among its members.

Origin of 'apathetically'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'apatheia', meaning 'without feeling', highlighting a lack of emotion.
  • In English, it was first used in the 1600s, indicating a shift in how people expressed emotion.
  • The prefix 'a-' means 'without', while '-pathy' relates to feelings or emotions.

The word 'apathetically' is derived from the adjective 'apathetic', which comes from the Greek word 'apathฤ“s' meaning 'without feeling'. The term first appeared in English in the early 17th century. Over time, 'apathetically' has come to be used to describe a lack of emotion or interest in a passive or indifferent manner.


See also: apathetic.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,789, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.