seeming disinterest

[ˈsiːmɪŋ dɪsˈɪntrəst]
noun phrase
desinteresse aparente
1. An appearance or outward show of lack of interest or concern that may or may not reflect one's true feelings
Despite his seeming disinterest in the project, he eventually became deeply involved.
Apesar do seu desinteresse aparente no projeto, ele eventualmente se envolveu profundamente.
2. A deliberate or unconscious display of indifference to something
Her seeming disinterest masked her true passion for the subject.
Seu desinteresse aparente ocultava sua verdadeira paixão pelo assunto.
This phrase is commonly used in both American and Brazilian contexts to describe someone's behavior that may mask their true intentions or feelings. In Brazilian culture, it's often associated with the concept of 'jogo de cintura' (playing it smooth), while in American contexts it frequently appears in professional and social situations where people mask their true interest or concern about something.
NYC Slang
playing it cool
Synonyms / Sinônimos
apparent indifferenceapparent disregardfeigned apathyostensible detachmentsurface disinterest
Antonyms / Antônimos
obvious interestgenuine enthusiasmapparent eagernessvisible engagement

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
desinteresse aparente
Standard expression used across Brazil
São Paulo
falta de interesse aparente
More formal phrasing common in business contexts
Rio de Janeiro
ar de desinteresse
Informal variant emphasizing the 'air' or appearance of disinterest
Portugal
desinteresse aparente
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; universal usage

Related Words

indifferenceapathydisregarddetachmentnonchalancefacade

Related Idioms & Phrases

playing it cool
keeping a poker face
not batting an eye
acting like you don't care
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