What does indifferently mean?
Indifferently is an adverb meaning without preference, favour, or bias, and also, in a less favourable sense, carelessly or without concern. When used of conduct or decisions, it commonly indicates that a person or principle is being applied impartially: a judge may treat all applicants indifferently by giving each the same consideration. The word can also describe action taken without adequate attention to relevant differences or consequences, as when someone drives indifferently in dangerous conditions. The distinction often depends on context and intent: even-handed neutrality is positive, whereas disregard may be negligent. Indifferently is a precise word for describing conduct that does not distinguish between people or alternatives, whether deliberately or through carelessness.
Without preference, favour, or bias; impartially or neutrally.
"The panel assessed every submission indifferently."
This use often conveys fairness or equal treatment, though it can also suggest an absence of concern.
Carelessly, without attending to distinctions, consequences, or appropriate regard.
"She indifferently ignored the warning signs posted along the trail."
This sense is critical and commonly implies negligence or disregard.
Indifferently can describe either fair neutrality or thoughtless neglect: the difference lies in whether the lack of preference is deliberate or careless.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does indifferently come from?
Indifferently comes from the adjective indifferent, which in turn derives from Latin indifferens, formed from in- meaning “not” and differre meaning “to differ.” The Latin adjective meant “not different” or “making no distinction,” and English later developed the sense of impartiality as well as lack of concern. The adverb was formed by adding the suffix -ly to the adjective.
Related word forms
How indifferently is actually used
The word is formal to neutral in register. In its first sense, it often suggests impartiality; in its second, it can suggest indifference that is negligent or disrespectful.
Easily confused with indifferently
“Indifferent” is normally an adjective describing an attitude, person, or choice, whereas “indifferently” is an adverb describing how someone acts or speaks.