Which text uses the word disinterested in its traditional sense?
As a teacher of American history, Mr. Ferguson tries to remain disinterested when discussing controversial issues, giving equal attention and consideration to each major viewpoint. As an experienced teacher of American history, Mr. Ferguson believes that playing history-based trivia games will revive even the most disinterested of students.
Words change in meaning when speakers begin using them in new ways. For example, the word peruse once only meant to examine in detail, but it's now also commonly used to mean to look through in a casual manner.
When a word changes in meaning, its correct usage is often debated. Although a newer sense of the word may be more commonly used, many people consider a word's traditional definition to be the correct usage. Being able to distinguish the different uses of a word can help you use it appropriately for different audiences.
Britney perused her notes, carefully preparing for her exam.
The traditional usage above is considered more standard.
David perused the magazine, absentmindedly flipping through the pages.
The nontraditional usage above is now commonly used, but traditional style guides generally advise against it.
The first text uses disinterested in its traditional sense: unbiased or impartial.
As a teacher of American history, Mr. Ferguson tries to remain disinterested when discussing controversial issues, giving equal attention and consideration to each major viewpoint.
The second text uses disinterested in its nontraditional sense: uninterested or indifferent.
As an experienced teacher of American history, Mr. Ferguson believes that playing history-based trivia games will revive even the most disinterested of students.
Most style guides recommend to use the traditional sense of the word disinterested because it is considered more standard.