SELF-INTEREST Synonyms: 61 Similar and Opposite Words

self-interest

noun

ˌself-ˈin-t(ə-)rəst

as in selfishness

excessive interest in oneself her degree of self-interest is perhaps best reflected in her favorite topic of conversation—herself

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of self-interest The expansion of the humanitarian system was untidy and asymmetric, driven by the organizational self-interest of the bigger international NGOs and UN agencies involved in crisis response and their desire for greater market share. —

Time, 26 Feb. 2026 Dismantling these systems not only threatens health, but also undermines trust, often for reasons that have more to do with self-interest than science, with seeming imperviousness to the real costs in human lives lost. —

Chelsea Clinton, Vanity Fair, 24 Feb. 2026 That approach has forced Canada and other medium-size nations to pursue the same transactional self-interest, Carney noted. —

Simon Shuster, The Atlantic, 18 Feb. 2026 Individuality as defined in the Declaration of Independence is rational self-interest moderated by the demands of universal consent. —

Roger Van Zanen, The Orlando Sentinel, 17 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-interest

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-interest

Noun

To take time out of one’s days or nights or weekends, to excuse oneself from family time, or time with friends, in order to write and think about one’s life, is an act of selfishness that is needed more now than ever.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 19 Mar. 2026
And there is a selfishness in understanding that in your craft and your industry, this is a pinnacle.

— Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 16 Mar. 2026