conceal indifference
[kən-ˈsēl ˌin-ˈdi-fərən(t)s]
verb phrase
disfarçar indiferença
1. to hide or mask one's lack of interest, concern, or emotional response to something
She tried to conceal indifference toward his proposal, but her silence gave her away.
Ela tentou disfarçar indiferença em relação à proposta dele, mas seu silêncio a denunciou.
2. to deliberately appear unconcerned while actually being emotionally detached
He struggled to conceal indifference when hearing about the company's closure.
Ele lutou para disfarçar indiferença ao ouvir sobre o fechamento da empresa.
This phrase reflects the human tendency to mask emotions for social acceptability. In Brazilian culture, there's often an expectation to be warm and engaged, making the concealment of indifference socially significant. In American contexts, 'playing it cool' is frequently associated with dating and social hierarchies, while in professional environments it relates to emotional intelligence and workplace politics.
NYC Slang
play it cool; act like you don't care
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