apathy

What does “apathy” mean?

noun.lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.

SAT Usage

The term is often found in passages discussing social issues, political engagement, or emotional states. It emphasizes a profound disengagement or indifference that can impact community dynamics or personal relationships, distinguishing it from mere boredom or disinterest by highlighting a deeper emotional detachment.

Common Confusions

Apathy implies a profound emotional disengagement or indifference, while indifference usually suggests a lack of interest or concern that may not stem from a deep emotional detachment.

Example Sentences

• Public apathy toward the issue made reform difficult.

Word Parts: How to Remember “apathy”

Break “apathy” into its parts: a- (not, without) + -path- (feeling, suffering). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.

• Prefix: a- not, without (Greek)
• Root: -path- feeling, suffering (Greek)