Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective aloof contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of aloof are detached, disinterested, incurious, indifferent, and unconcerned. While all these words mean "not showing or feeling interest," aloof suggests a cool reserve arising from a sense of superiority or disdain for inferiors or from shyness.

aloof from his coworkers

When might detached be a better fit than aloof?

The meanings of detached and aloof largely overlap; however, detached implies an objective attitude achieved through absence of prejudice or selfishness.

observed family gatherings with detached amusement

When is disinterested a more appropriate choice than aloof?

Although the words disinterested and aloof have much in common, disinterested implies a circumstantial freedom from concern for personal or especially financial advantage that enables one to judge or advise without bias.

judged by a panel of disinterested observers

In what contexts can incurious take the place of aloof?

The words incurious and aloof are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, incurious implies an inability to take a normal interest due to dullness of mind or to self-centeredness.

incurious about the world

When could indifferent be used to replace aloof?

While in some cases nearly identical to aloof, indifferent implies neutrality of attitude from lack of inclination, preference, or prejudice.

indifferent to the dictates of fashion

When is it sensible to use unconcerned instead of aloof?

The synonyms unconcerned and aloof are sometimes interchangeable, but unconcerned suggests a lack of sensitivity or regard for others' needs or troubles.

unconcerned about the homeless

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of aloof There’s a certain traditional stereotype of actors as people who are arrogant or self-confident, the sort of people who are overly serious, aloof, or pretentious. Callum Booth, Forbes, 24 Feb. 2025 While Han Solo is aloof, snide, and brooding, Indiana Jones is warm, beleaguered, and funnier. Tim Grierson, Vulture, 18 Feb. 2025 This time could be different, yet the greater risk may be staying aloof and missing out on economic growth and corporate profits. Jeff Sommer, New York Times, 24 Jan. 2025 Take, for example, Apple’s 2013 holiday ad, Misunderstood — a poignant narrative about a seemingly aloof teenager expressing love in his way. Bill Schiffmiller, Forbes, 30 Nov. 2024 See All Example Sentences for aloof
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aloof
Adjective
  • His ceiling offensively doesn’t suggest work as a No. 1 centre in the NHL; second-line duty over a period of years is something of a distant bell based on current numbers; his floor (No. 3 centre) would represent a reach selection for this player.
    Allan Mitchell, New York Times, 13 Apr. 2025
  • Great athletes have been known to remember the minute details of games in the distant past with uncommon clarity.
    Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen, Robb Report, 13 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • In addition to the main floor porch, the property has a large detached deck close to shore for waterside entertaining. Take a look around...
    Audrey Kennedy, Axios, 17 Jan. 2025
  • The property comes with a detached garage with a stylish glass garage door and a car charger.
    David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 29 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Lopez has been seen out in New York a lot lately, and while the weather has been cold for spring, there’s still a lot going on for her, especially in the theatre world.
    Aamina Inayat Khan, StyleCaster, 9 Apr. 2025
  • This oral rinse provides relief from tooth pain and discomfort triggered by cold, heat, acids, sweets or contact.
    Raja Krishnamoorthi, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • If the planet becomes cool enough and hydrogen and water separate early in its evolution, Gupta says a supercritical layer of water could form beneath the hydrogen atmosphere — thereby shedding new light on how planets with liquid water oceans could exist.
    Victoria Corless, Space.com, 9 Apr. 2025
  • April 7, 2025 No word on whether Sanders made that call to Kathy Sudeikis, but that would be a pretty cool connection.
    Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 9 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Aloof.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aloof. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

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