The Real Meaning of the Word Disinterested

[Rhondazvous]

Forgive me folks, but I have a degree in English and used to teach basic writing to undergrads and I am really and truly tired of seeing otherwise intelligent people misuse this word.

I often see the word disinterested used when what the person means is indifferent. Disinterested means when someone has nothing to gain from something, to have no interest in it. It has nothing to do with whether he finds the thing interesting. Interest here is used in a totally different way. If a situation or decision does not affect me personally then I'm disinterested, even if I find the situation most intriguing. On the other hand, I could find the situation quite boring, but if I stand to gain financially or in some other way then I'm not disinterested.

Please, if you love me, don't offend my sensibilities by abusing this word.

Teachers: fearless warriors in the never-ending battle against ignorance, spitballs and dangling participles.

[Rahul]

That's very disinteresting.

[brewer]

I don't remember using that word. I typically use "I don't care". Does that work?

Won't use the love word, has little meaning for me. I do care!

[Raymot]

I think you've lost this battle. Most people think 'disinterested' means 'uninterested'. To expect otherwise on a web forum is unrealistic.

[KUSA]

I am very disinterested in this thread.

[Iroscato]

Forgive me folks

I do not possess such power. There is only one who can forgive you in this way.

[Rhondazvous]

I think you've lost this battle. Most people think 'disinterested' means 'uninterested'. To expect otherwise on a web forum is unrealistic.

I can't lose a never-ending battle. I simply lick my wounds and come back with all guns blazing.

[Excited Penguin]

Forgive me folks, but I have a degree in English and used to teach basic writing to undergrads and I am really and truly tired of seeing otherwise intelligent people misuse this word.

I often see the word disinterested used when what the person means is indifferent. Disinterested means when someone has nothing to gain from something, to have no interest in it. It has nothing to do with whether he finds the thing interesting. Interest here is used in a totally different way. If a situation or decision does not  affect me personally then I'm disinterested, even if I find the situation most intriguing. On the other hand, I could find the situation quite boring, but if I stand to gain financially or in some other way then I'm not disinterested.

Please, if you love me, don't offend my sensibilities by abusing this word.

Teachers: fearless warriors in the never-ending battle against ignorance, spitballs and dangling participles.

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/disinterested

What were you again? Some sort of language expert? Well, you're wrong. Isn't it weird, being that I learned english over the internet and apparently know it better than you do? Maybe you should read some literature to ascertain the real meaning of words.

It means both, by the way, if you didn't get that.

I'm not sure why you had the impression it was used only one certain way. Nevertheless, I'll have you know that language is a tool - it evolves and changes with usage. It's not set in stone, far from it. "Pedants", however, seem to miss the point, as usual.

[Alex K]

You have my complete and utter support with this issue. In related news, begging the question does not mean compelling one to ask the question. Frankenstein is the scientist, not the monster. If you "could care less", you do fucking care. Presently means soon, not now. Amen.

(ok, that last one seems to be lost, but still!)

[ignoramus]

Miles too many double negatives also.
"Sorry officer, but I don't know nothing!"