Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[learner1]

Hello,

I cannot figure out the difference between 'uncaring' and 'indifferent'. And I wonder if they can be instead of each other in some contexts. e.g.

'I am upset by your uncaring attitude toward the tragic event.'

What does 'uncaring' mean here? Does it have the same meaning as 'indifferent' here?

Thank you very much.

[lotus]

Hi Learner1,

The difference can be subtle, and there are times when they are not really interchangeable.

"Uncaring" is more in line with being callous.

"Indifferent" is more in line with being apathetic.

It is here where a thesaurus can be helpful (in conjunction with a dictionary).
http://thesaurus.reference.com/
http://dictionary.reference.com/

In your case, the meaning is more in line with "callous."


--lotus
_________________
War does not make one great --Yoda