SELF-INTEREST Synonyms: 61 Similar and Opposite Words

self-interest

noun

ˌself-ˈin-t(ə-)rəst

Definition of self-interest

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 Regional states’ self-interest would keep oil flowing, no new terrorist safe havens would emerge, and no outside power would fill the vacuum. — Philip H. Gordon, Foreign Affairs, 12 Oct. 2026 The invisible hand helps explain how self-interest can create prosperity. — Linda K. Brown Stroh, Fortune, 11 Oct. 2026 But not without reminding everyone that humans are flawed, complicated creatures who, despite best intentions, sometimes act against their own self-interest and the well-being of others. — Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 6 Oct. 2026 Equality arises from self-interest Our study also found that although hunter-gatherers are frequently generous, the processes limiting inequality often do not require any generosity. — Christopher Von Rueden, The Conversation, 3 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-interest

Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-interest

Noun

But Vicki’s insufferable attitude is nothing compared to Lisa’s selfishness by the end of the episode.

— Ile-Ife Okantah, Vulture, 7 Sep. 2026
Timidity dissolves into might, selfishness gives place to broad-reaching love, incompetence is replaced with obedience to God’s perfect direction.

— The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 2 Sep. 2026

Definition of selfishness

Noun

Someone may push an opinion too hard, take credit, or turn a simple discussion into a battle of egos.

— Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 30 Oct. 2026
Inevitably, the movie is not quite as interior, but Jean-Luc Godard uses each male character’s contentious interpretation of The Odyssey as a reflection of their own egos.

— Radhika Seth, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2026

Definition of ego

Noun

Kikuko sometimes mistook Shigejiro’s cheerfulness for egoism owing to the distortions produced by her illness.

— Cynthia Zarin, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026
There was too much egoism politically for each country to be all together with a unique economy, language and president.

— Adam Crafton, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2026