unconcerned

adjective

ˌən-kən-ˈsərnd How to pronounce unconcerned (audio)
Definition of unconcernednext
1
as in nonchalant
having or showing freedom from worries or troubles playful and unconcerned despite his medical emergency

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in casual
having or showing a lack of interest or concern a featherbrain completely unconcerned about the important issues of the day

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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an unconcerned coolness
an unruffled coolness
an imperturbable coolness
a stoic coolness
an impassive coolness
a dispassionate coolness
unconcerned parents
uninterested parents
carefree parents
complacent parents
indifferent parents
an unconcerned spectator
a disinterested spectator
an indifferent spectator
an uninterested spectator
an apathetic spectator
a disengaged spectator
an unconcerned universe
an indifferent universe
an uncaring universe
a heedless universe
an apathetic universe
a disinterested universe

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective unconcerned contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of unconcerned are aloof, detached, disinterested, incurious, and indifferent. While all these words mean "not showing or feeling interest," unconcerned suggests a lack of sensitivity or regard for others' needs or troubles.

unconcerned about the homeless

When might aloof be a better fit than unconcerned?

The words aloof and unconcerned are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, aloof suggests a cool reserve arising from a sense of superiority or disdain for inferiors or from shyness.

aloof from his coworkers

When would detached be a good substitute for unconcerned?

While in some cases nearly identical to unconcerned, detached implies an objective attitude achieved through absence of prejudice or selfishness.

observed family gatherings with detached amusement

When is disinterested a more appropriate choice than unconcerned?

The meanings of disinterested and unconcerned largely overlap; however, disinterested implies a circumstantial freedom from concern for personal or especially financial advantage that enables one to judge or advise without bias.

judged by a panel of disinterested observers

In what contexts can incurious take the place of unconcerned?

The synonyms incurious and unconcerned are sometimes interchangeable, but incurious implies an inability to take a normal interest due to dullness of mind or to self-centeredness.

incurious about the world

When can indifferent be used instead of unconcerned?

While the synonyms indifferent and unconcerned are close in meaning, indifferent implies neutrality of attitude from lack of inclination, preference, or prejudice.

indifferent to the dictates of fashion

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of unconcerned Kansas officials, for their part, have appeared largely unconcerned about whether that ongoing effort violates the broader border war truce with Missouri. — Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 11 Feb. 2025 The people trusted with interpreting this ambiguous evidence in their small community were mired in conflict, under-resourced and, Sara’s brothers said, unconcerned with offering closure to the family. — Ariane Lange, Sacramento Bee, 26 Jan. 2025 Seemingly unconcerned with pursuing cinematic excellence, Freiburger wraps up the tale in utterly saccharine fashion and avoids engaging with the topic’s more challenging political nuances. — Carlos Aguilar, Variety, 24 Jan. 2025 Kidman immerses herself in Becca’s oppositional tones of despair and unlikely hope, unconcerned with whether the audience will like her or not, something that applies to our next ranking, too. — Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 3 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unconcerned
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unconcerned
  1. nonchalant
  2. casual
  3. carefree
  4. relaxed
Adjective
  • The nonchalant nature of the talking stage can also shield individuals from rejection.
    — Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Among the many characters in the mural are: a gray cat perched in a tree; a white-and-black dog digging excitedly in the grass; a nonchalant orange cat lounging without a care; a dachshund mid-chase after a ball; and a black cat leaping into the air, back arched in dramatic flair.
    — Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Mar. 2025
Definition of nonchalant
Adjective
  • The brand’s versatility extends beyond extreme conditions, offering skiers many of its jackets for casual skiing, hiking, or everyday urban wear.
    — Cassell Ferere, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025
  • His pursuit of Gretzky has captured the attention of many casual hockey fans, helping with tune-in for the NHL.
    — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 27 Mar. 2025
Definition of casual
Adjective
  • Symbolized by the ram, Aries is a fire sign, known for its strong persona. Courageous, strong-willed and carefree − those born under Aries are often seen as natural leaders.
    — Olivia Munson, USA TODAY, 21 Mar. 2025
  • Most days, these cattle live out docile, carefree lives on the ranch, grazing on tall grass.
    — Phillip Valys, Sun Sentinel, 15 Mar. 2025
Definition of carefree
Adjective
  • Baggy jeans have claimed their place in the fashion world as a comfortable, versatile garment that bridges the gap between relaxed and elegant.
    — René Chávez Esparza, Glamour, 26 Mar. 2025
  • All parties are relaxed about the future; from the player to his agents and club officials.
    — Harry De Cosemo, Forbes, 25 Mar. 2025
Definition of relaxed

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Cite this Entry

“Unconcerned.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unconcerned. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

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