Definition

1. Verb:

   • To look on with indifference: To observe a situation without getting involved, showing concern, or taking any action. It implies a detached, passive, and often uncaring stance.

2. Noun (as part of a noun phrase):

   • Indifference / an attitude of detachment: Used to describe the state or quality of being an unconcerned onlooker. Often appears in the phrase "thái độ bàng quan" (an attitude of indifference).

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Anh ta chỉ bàng quan trước những khó khăn của đồng nghiệp. (He merely looked on with indifference to his colleague's difficulties.)
  • Chúng ta không thể bàng quan trước nạn ô nhiễm môi trường. (We cannot remain indifferent to environmental pollution.)
• Noun phrase:
  • Thái độ bàng quan của anh ấy khiến mọi người thất vọng. (His indifferent attitude disappointed everyone.)

Advanced Usage

• The word carries a negative connotation, criticizing a lack of responsibility, empathy, or social conscience. It is often used in contexts discussing social issues, community problems, or the suffering of others where action or concern is morally expected.
• It describes a conscious choice to remain detached, not merely accidental unawareness.

Synonyms

• To be indifferent: To have no particular interest or sympathy.
• To stand aloof: To remain emotionally or physically distant.
• To remain a passive spectator: To watch without participating.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Thái độ bàng quan: (Noun phrase) An attitude of indifference; a spectator's attitude.
  • Lãnh đạo không được có thái độ bàng quan. (Leaders must not have an attitude of indifference.)
• Đứng bàng quan: (Verb phrase) To stand by indifferently; to take a hands-off stance.
  • Trước sự bất công, không ai được phép đứng bàng quan. (In the face of injustice, no one is allowed to stand by indifferently.)

verb

1. To look on (with indifference)
   • thái độ bàng quan
     an onlooker's attitude, indifference
   • không thể bàng quan với thời cuộc
     one cannot look on with indifference, as far as world developments are concerned