Disinterested vs. Uninterested

Many English speakers confuse “disinterested” and “uninterested”, but they have very different meanings.

Disinterested

Disinterested means neutral or impartial. A disinterested person has no personal advantage to gain. This is the word to use when talking about fairness or objectivity.

• The judge must remain disinterested during the trial.
• We need a disinterested opinion from someone who’s not involved.
• A referee should be disinterested, not supporting either team.

Uninterested

Uninterested means not interested or bored. Use it when someone doesn't care or shows no curiosity.

• She seemed uninterested in the movie and kept checking her phone.
• He’s uninterested in politics.
• If students are uninterested, the lesson won’t work.