nonchalantly

Nonchalantly is an adverb describing the manner of acting with a calm, unconcerned, and casually indifferent demeanor. Someone who acts nonchalantly may appear at ease and unruffled, sometimes to mask emotion or to avoid drawing attention to themselves.

Etymology: The term derives from the French nonchalant, meaning indifferent or casually relaxed. English borrowed the adjective in the 18th century, and the adverb form nonchalantly follows the standard English formation with -ly.

Usage and nuance: In narrative and reportage, nonchalantly signals controlled, poised behavior but can also imply flippancy or neglect. The connotation depends on context, tone, and intensity of the surrounding description. Phrases such as nonchalantly shrugged, nonchalantly glanced, or spoke nonchalantly illustrate common uses.

Related terms: nonchalance (noun), nonchalant (adjective). See also synonyms like casually, insouciantly, unflappably; antonyms include anxiously, eagerly.