Vocabulary Spotlight
Blase
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition: Unimpressed or indifferent to something because one has experienced or seen it so often before.
“After years of traveling, she became blase about visiting new places.”
Pronunciation
[blah-ZAY]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Unenthusiastic
Indifferent
Jaded
Unimpressed
Antonyms
Excited
Engaged
Enthusiastic
Eager
Related Words
Boredom
Dispassionate
Word Origin
The word “blase” originated from French, where it originally meant “sated” or “surfeited.” It was borrowed into English in the early 19th century, evolving to describe someone who is unimpressed or indifferent due to frequent exposure or overindulgence.
This word is often associated with a certain world-weariness or jaded outlook, resulting from repeated exposure to pleasures or experiences that would otherwise be exciting.
Word Family
Adjective: Blase – Unimpressed or indifferent.
Noun: Blase attitude – A mindset or outlook characterized by indifference.
Related Noun: Blaseness – The quality of being blase or indifferent.
Mnemonics
Bored Lacking Any Significant Emotion.
This mnemonic helps recall that “blase” describes someone who feels indifferent or unexcited due to familiarity.
Industry-specific Usage
Tourism
In tourism, a blase traveler may show little interest in traditional attractions, often seeking unique or offbeat experiences to overcome their indifference.
Entertainment
People working in entertainment may grow blase about celebrity interactions or events that excite the general public due to frequent exposure.
Retail
In retail, long-time employees may become blase towards sales rushes or product launches, finding them routine rather than thrilling.
In Context
In contemporary culture, being blase can be seen as either a sign of sophistication or boredom. A blase attitude might suggest emotional maturity or, conversely, a lack of enthusiasm and appreciation. This mindset can be observed in fields where repeated exposure dulls the excitement for once-thrilling experiences, such as in travel, luxury markets, or entertainment industries.
In psychology, a blase attitude is sometimes associated with desensitization, where overexposure leads to reduced emotional response. This phenomenon is studied in relation to consumer habits, media consumption, and societal attitudes toward overstimulation.