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

‘neamhspéis’ also means: independence

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

How to say “indifference” in Irish

Irish:
neamhspéis
English:
indifference, independence
Word type:
noun
Gender:
feminine
Pronunciation:
“NYOW-spaysh”  /ˈnʲaũsˠpʲeːʃ/
Various forms
Genitive singular:
neamhspéise, na neamhspéise (e.g. cúis na neamhspéise, the reason for the indifference)

What does “neamhspéis” mean?

“Neamhspéis” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.

indifference
A lack of interest or concern about something.Also: lack of interest, disregard, unconcern, apathy.
1 other meaning: independence
2independence
The state of not depending on others, especially in the phrase 'ar neamhspéis', independent or regardless.Also: self-reliance.

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

“Neamhspéis” with the article

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

an neamhspéis
the indifference
No change after an

“Neamhspéis” in a sentence: Irish examples

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

Chuir a neamhspéis isteach go mór orm.
His indifference really bothered me.
Léirigh sí neamhspéis iomlán sa scéal.
She showed complete indifference to the story.
Ní thuigim an neamhspéis atá ag daoine sa pholaitíocht.
I don't understand people's indifference to politics.
Bhí blas na neamhspéise ar a chuid cainte.
There was a tone of indifference in his speech.
Rinne siad é le neamhspéis.
They did it with indifference.
Is í an neamhspéis an namhaid is measa.
Indifference is the worst enemy.
Níl ann ach neamhspéis, ní fuath.
It's only indifference, not hatred.

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 neamhspéis (pronounced “NYOW-spaysh”). It’s a feminine noun. Depending on context it can also mean independence.

How do you pronounce neamhspéis in Irish?

Neamhspéis is said like “NYOW-spaysh” (IPA /ˈnʲaũsˠpʲeːʃ/).

Does neamhspéis have a plural?

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

Does neamhspéis have more than one meaning?

Yes. Neamhspéis can mean indifference or independence, depending on context; the first is the most common.

How is 'neamhspéis' related to 'spéis'?

'Spéis' means interest, and the prefix 'neamh-' negates it, so 'neamhspéis' is lack of interest. A close synonym is 'neamhshuim'.

How do I say someone ignored something?

You can say 'Rinne sé neamhspéis de', he disregarded it, or 'Thug sé neamhaird air'.

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