Definition of self-interestnext

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 Each visit has been grounded in national economic self-interest, and while trust in China may be limited, reliance on Washington now feels less certain — more to the point, riskier. Dewardric L. McNeal, CNBC, 13 Feb. 2026 But even the fact that some of them are inspired to consider helping out makes for significant progress in a world that is governed by survivalism and animalistic self-interest. Jack King, Vulture, 4 Feb. 2026 Supporting the Iranians is in our self-interest. Agustina Vergara Cid, Oc Register, 23 Jan. 2026 As with so much about college football, where self-interest reigns and sanity is scarce, the outcome isn’t ideal but could have been much, much worse. Jon Wilner, Mercury News, 23 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-interest
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-interest
Noun
  • This climactic collision is woven from several minor ethical tugs-of-war that rest on each character exhibiting both selfishness and altruism in various scenes, until their complicated humanity is placed under a harsh spotlight.
    Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 21 Feb. 2026
  • Jokic plays below the rim, accents the margins, makes the right play, everything that runs contrary to the selfishness rewarded in this exhibition.
    Troy Renck, Denver Post, 16 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • With the world seemingly hell-bent on her failure, indulging in the vanities of self-adornment is of little importance to Linda.
    Daniel Rodgers, Vogue, 22 Feb. 2026
  • Lawrence is also a fan of incorporating a waterfall countertop on bathroom vanities or smaller kitchens with a peninsula countertop.
    Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • But all options should be considered, using our adult egos.
    Harvey Levine, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026
  • Participants are urged to restrain harmful speech, dishonesty, anger and ego.
    Irfan Sarwar, Chicago Tribune, 17 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • McGuane also reminded me that Hemingway was, to put it politely, a complicated personality, a domineering figure prone to brawling, affairs, and cask-strength egoism.
    Tyler Austin Harper, The Atlantic, 30 Oct. 2025
  • This is different from egoism and self-centeredness.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Self-interest.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-interest. Accessed 26 Feb. 2026.

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