Translation guide
The English adverb "indifferently" can express lack of interest, lack of preference, or mediocre quality. Japanese uses different expressions depending on the nuance.
To do something or react in a way that shows no interest, enthusiasm, or emotional involvement.
Adverbial form of 無関心 (indifference). Used when someone is apathetic or unconcerned about something.
彼は政治に無関心に振る舞った。
He acted indifferently toward politics.
Literally "seeming to have no interest." Describes a manner that appears uninterested.
彼女は興味なさそうに話を聞いていた。
She listened to the story indifferently.
Conveys a sense of not caring at all, as if it doesn't matter. Casual and somewhat dismissive.
彼はどうでもよさそうに返事をした。
He replied indifferently.
Means coldly or indifferently, often with a nuance of emotional coldness or unfriendliness.
店員は冷淡に対応した。
The clerk dealt with me indifferently.
To express that one has no particular preference among choices, or is equally willing to accept any outcome.
Common phrase meaning "either is fine" or "I don't care which." Used when you have no preference.
「コーヒーと紅茶、どっちがいい？」「どちらでもいいよ。」
"Which would you like, coffee or tea?" "Either is fine."
More polite/formal than どちらでもいい. Means "I don't mind either way."
日程はどっちでも構いません。
I am indifferent to the schedule; either date works.
Stronger, can sound dismissive or rude. Means "I don't care at all" or "whatever." Use with caution.
Can sound rude or dismissive. Avoid in polite conversation.
そんなことはどうでもいい。
I don't care about that at all. (indifferently)
To do something in a way that is neither good nor bad; average, unimpressive.
Set phrase meaning "neither good nor bad; so-so." Often used to describe performance or quality.
彼の演技は可もなく不可もなくだった。
His performance was indifferent.
Means ordinarily, commonly, without distinction. Can imply mediocrity.
彼は平凡に仕事をこなした。
He did his job indifferently.
Means passably, reasonably, but not excellently. Often used for skills or results.
試験はそこそこにできた。
I did indifferently on the exam.
There is no single Japanese adverb that covers all uses of "indifferently." Choose the expression based on whether you mean lack of interest, lack of preference, or mediocre quality.