public apathy

[ˈpʌblɪk ˈæpəθi]
noun
apatia pública
1. lack of interest, concern, or enthusiasm among the general population regarding public affairs, social issues, or civic participation
Public apathy toward local elections has resulted in historically low voter turnout.
A apatia pública em relação às eleições locais resultou em uma comparecência eleitoral historicamente baixa.
2. widespread indifference or emotional detachment from matters affecting society as a whole
Growing public apathy about climate change threatens environmental policy initiatives.
A crescente apatia pública sobre mudanças climáticas ameaça as iniciativas de política ambiental.
Public apathy is a significant concern in both Brazilian and American political discourse. In Brazil, it often relates to distrust in institutions and government corruption scandals, while in the US it frequently centers on voter participation and political polarization. The term reflects a broader anxiety about democratic health and civic responsibility in contemporary society.
NYC Slang
people just don't care anymore / the city's over it
Synonyms / Sinônimos
public indifferencecivic apathyvoter apathymass disengagementsocial indifference
Antonyms / Antônimos
public engagementcivic participationsocial activismpublic interestcivic enthusiasm

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
apatia pública
Standard term used in news media and academic contexts
Rio de Janeiro
desinteresse público
Alternative commonly used in colloquial speech
São Paulo
apatia pública / desengajamento cívico
Both terms used in political and social discourse
Portugal
apatia pública / indiferença pública
Both forms are acceptable in European Portuguese

Related Words

voter apathycivic engagementpolitical participationsocial activismpublic opiniondemocratic participation

Related Idioms & Phrases

the masses don't give a damn
widespread indifference grips the nation
voter fatigue sets in
citizens tune out politics
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