Disinterested vs. uninterested
Disinterested and uninterested are two words, (which are adjectives), which people sometimes conflate in conversation and writing.
| Word | Sentence Example |
|---|---|
| disinterested | The arbitrator was a disinterested party, chosen by both sides to ensure a fair resolutionined. |
| uninterested | She seemed uninterested in my story. |
When to use disinterested vs. uninterested
Disinterested and uninterested are both adjectives:
- Disinterested means “impartial” or “indifferent” (i.e., not having a vested interest).
- Uninterested means “not interested in”.
| Examples: “disinterested” in a sentence | Example: “uninterested” in a sentence |
| Let a disinterested person judge our dispute. | This person is obviously uninterested in our dispute. |
Meaning of disinterested & uninterested
To be disinterested means to “not having the mind or feelings engaged“. Or, to be uninfluenced by personal feelings, or by the chance of getting some advantage for yourself. (E.g., her advice appeared to be disinterested. I was merely a disinterested spectator in the whole affair.
“Disinterested”, used in sentences
| Examples: “disinterested” used in sentences |
| A solicitor can give you disinterested advice.
Her advice appeared to be disinterested. I was merely a disinterested spectator in the whole affair. her father was so disinterested in her progress that he only visited the school once |
“Uninterested”, used in sentences
| Examples: “uninterested” in sentences | |
| He is completely uninterested in politics.
He was totally uninterested in sport. She seemed cold and uninterested. She was completely uninterested in her sister’s career. |
Think “disinterested” means your personal interest is *dis*connected (impartial). “Uninterested” means you are simply “not” interested.
Synonyms & nearby words
Synonyms for disinterested
Synonyms for uninterested
Etymology of “disinterested”/”uninterested”
1640s, “unbiased,” from un- (1) “not” + past participle of interest (v.). It later meant “disinterested” (1660s); sense of “unconcerned, indifferent” is recorded from 1771. This is the correct word for what often is miscalled disinterested.
1610s, “unconcerned” (the sense that now would go with uninterested), from dis- “opposite of” + interested.
Worksheet: word choice
A judge must remain ______ in all cases.
He seemed ______ in the topic and kept looking at his phone.
We need a ______ opinion on this matter.
She was ______ in the outcome and left early.
A ______ party can help resolve disputes fairly.
FAQs
Are ‘disinterested’ and ‘uninterested’ interchangeable?
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What does ‘disinterested’ mean?
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What does ‘uninterested’ mean?
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Give an example of correct ‘disinterested’.
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Give an example of correct ‘uninterested’.
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- The Elements of Style, Strunk & White (always).
Yash, D. "How to Use Disinterested vs. Uninterested (Word Choice)." Grammarflex, Sep 11, 2025, https://grammarflex.com/disinterested-vs-uninterested/.
