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Indifference in Irish (Fuarchúis): Meaning, Pronunciation, Usage

‘fuarchúis’ also means: coolness · chilliness

The Irish for indifference is fuarchúis, a feminine noun.
Updated October 2026Report a mistake

How to say “indifference” in Irish

Irish:
fuarchúis
English:
indifference, coolness, chilliness
Word type:
noun
Gender:
feminine, second declension
Pronunciation:
“FOOR-khoosh”  /ˈfuəɾˌxuːʃ/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
fuarchúise, na fuarchúise (e.g. comharthaí na fuarchúise, signs of indifference)

What does “fuarchúis” mean?

“Fuarchúis” has three alternative meanings. The most common comes first.

indifference
A lack of interest or concern about something; apathy.Also: apathy, unconcern, lukewarmness.
2 other meanings: coolness or chilliness
2coolness
Calmness and composure, the quality of not being easily excited or upset.Also: composure, phlegm, imperturbability.
3chilliness
A cold, unfriendly manner towards someone.Also: coldness, frigidity, aloofness.

Other Irish words for indifference: neamhshuim (indifference), neamhiontas (indifference)

“Fuarchúis” with the article

Here is fuarchúis after the article (an t-alt).

an fhuarchúis
the indifference
Lenition: f becomes fh after an (feminine noun)

“Fuarchúis” in a sentence: Irish examples

Common Irish sentences using fuarchúis, the Irish word for indifference.

Chuir a fuarchúis iontas orm.
Her indifference surprised me.
Labhair sé le fuarchúis faoin scéal.
He spoke coolly about the matter.
Tá fuarchúis mhór i measc an phobail faoin toghchán.
There is great apathy among the public about the election.
Níor thaitin an fhuarchúis sin liom ar chor ar bith.
I didn't like that coldness at all.
Bhí blas na fuarchúise ar a fhreagra.
His answer had a tinge of indifference.
Ghlac sí leis an drochscéal le fuarchúis iontach.
She took the bad news with remarkable composure.
Tá fuarchúis éigin idir an bheirt acu le tamall.
There has been a certain coolness between the two of them for a while.

Other nouns in Irish

More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.

Indifference in Irish: frequently asked questions

What is the Irish for indifference?

The Irish for indifference is fuarchúis (pronounced “FOOR-khoosh”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean coolness or chilliness.

How do you pronounce fuarchúis in Irish?

Fuarchúis is said like “FOOR-khoosh” (IPA /ˈfuəɾˌxuːʃ/).

Does fuarchúis have a plural?

No plural form is given for fuarchúis in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.

Does fuarchúis have more than one meaning?

Yes. Fuarchúis can mean indifference, coolness or chilliness, depending on context; the first is the most common.

Why does fuarchúis change to fhuarchúis or bhfuarchúis?

Irish changes the start of some words after certain words. After mo (my) fuarchúis becomes m'fhuarchúis (lenition), and after ár (our) or i (in) it becomes ár bhfuarchúis (eclipsis).

How is 'fuarchúis' different from 'neamhshuim'?

'Neamhshuim' means simple lack of interest, while 'fuarchúis' suggests a cool, unmoved attitude, which can be either calm composure or chilly indifference.

Is 'fuarchúis' always negative?

No: 'le fuarchúis' can praise someone's composure under pressure, though it often implies coldness or apathy.

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