The differences in meaning between these words are subtle. Both words mean “not interested” but in different ways.
Uninterested describes an attitude towards a topic. One must be uninterested in something:
I am uninterested (in playing video games).
Disinterested can be used in the same way, or to mean “neutral” or “without personal investment”:
Decisions of justice should be made by disinterested judges.
Here disinterested means “who have no personal interest in the matter.”
More Examples of How to Use "Disinterested" in a Sentence
- Disinterested in the outcome, Judy just wanted to see a fun and respectful soccer game.
- A good scientist is disinterested in the outcome of an experiment, though this often easier said than done.
- The disinterested jury listened to all the evidence and rendered a verdict of not guilty.
- Many people think that being disinterested in something means you don't care about it at all, but that's not actually the definition.
- Most of the time, being disinterested is a good thing because it means you can make decisions without any bias.
- However, there are times when being disinterested can be a bad thing, such as when you need to show some emotion or passion for something.
More Examples of How to Use "Uninterested" in a Sentence
- The strict professor was uninterested in my explanation, so I left class feeling defeated and dejected.
- When she didn't reply to his message, Jake knew she was uninterested in going out with him again.
- If you are uninterested in going to the movies, there are plenty of other things to do tonight.
- The family could not believe how uninterested the newlyweds were in their wedding planning.
- Jane was uninterested in going to Kevin’s party, especially after she found out Robbie would be there.