disinteresse

disinterest

noun dee-zeen-teh-REHS-seh Rare

Origin: From Latin dis- (not) + interesse (interest).

Also means

indifference

Usage Note

Disinteresse has two senses that a learner must distinguish: 'impartiality / selflessness' (agire con disinteresse = to act selflessly) and 'lack of interest / indifference' (mostrare disinteresse per la politica = to show disinterest in politics). Context usually makes the intended meaning clear. The plural disinteressi is used when referring to multiple instances.

Examples

"Mostrò un totale disinteresse per la politica."

Natural Translation

He showed a total disinterest in politics.

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