One word for taking something without feeling

I am looking for a word that explains the state of mind where one is neither happy nor sad about something, i.e., being unbiased in one's feeling towards something or even-minded about something. Something like 'indifferent' or 'impassive' but sans the negative connotation. I was considering equanimous, but I guess that word mostly means stable minded in face of adversities, and it's a character trait rather than a one-time response to something. Eg:
I am neither sad nor happy about his departure. Update: Based on the comment below I wish to add to the question a little. The meaning I wish to convey is the subject in question bears little significance to me and hence I am of an even temperament towards it.


I think the word you are looking for is disinterested. It's meaning is, of course, quite different to uninterested.

When Chelsea play Arsenal I shall be disinterested in the result, as I do not support either team. I shall, however, watch the match with great interest on Match of the Day.

This curious situation arises because the word interest has two quite different meanings. I am disinterested as to the price of Rolls Royce shares (because I don't have any), but I am interested as to how they are performing, simply because I am fascinated by economic news.

The whole question of the public interest has been a topic of recent debate in the UK, concerning tabloid journalism. Newspapers, such as the now defunct News of the World, regularly publish sensational stories on their front pages about the love lives of celebrities. Often this involves their journalists invading people's privacy in the most underhanded way e.g by tapping their mobile phones. There is no public interest involved in people knowing these things, say many. The stories are nonetheless of great interest to the public' who buy the newspapers.

Many people in France argue that there is no public interest at stake, regardless of whether President Francois Hollande is having an affair. But the story is certainly interesting the public.


The first word that came to mind was stoic:

He received the bad news stoically.

But the reference to stoicism might be a bit too heavy, depending on the situation. Also, it does seem to be a character trait again.

Another way to react to a situation or piece of news without (much) emotion could be impartial, or maybe simply neutral.

Maybe you can also say you are untouched by his departure, or

His departure leaves me cold.

(Agreed, that last option is not one word.)


you could use

  • unemotionally

  • indifferently

  • in a detached way

  • stoically