Disinterested
hardPositive tonedis-IN-truh-stid
adjective
Definition
free from bias or self-interest; impartial
Memory hook
disINTERESTED: having no 'interest' (stake) in the result, so you judge fairly. Not the same as 'bored'!
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The dispute needed a disinterested arbitrator with no stake in the outcome.”
“A scientist must offer a disinterested assessment, untouched by personal gain.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The dispute needed a ______ arbitrator with no stake in the outcome.”
Show answer
disinterested
Categories
GRE Tip
Disinterested is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "impartial" or "unbiased" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "biased".
Related GRE Words
dispassionate
Not influenced by emotion; impartial and objective in judgment
impartial
Treating all rivals or disputants equally; fair and just
objective
Not influenced by personal feelings or opinions in considering facts
abstemious
Moderate in eating and drinking; self-restrained
artless
free of guile or pretense; naturally simple and sincere
craven
contemptibly cowardly; lacking courage
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