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 Beyond that, he’s motivated by pure self-interest. Cressida Leyshon, New Yorker, 26 Apr. 2026 Yet a major part of these Indigenous values is the diminished role of the self and self-interest. Tim Brinkhof, JSTOR Daily, 22 Apr. 2026 What’s more, in Florida, people too often maddeningly vote against their self-interest. Steve Bousquet, The Orlando Sentinel, 15 Apr. 2026 It is supposed to be the first ship in a flotilla that will carry economic development, national self-interests, and the yearning for scientific discovery to the moon. Rebecca Boyle, The Atlantic, 10 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-interest
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-interest
Noun
  • The adjectives used to describe vampire Lucy suggest monstrous selfishness.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 5 May 2026
  • Our policies have been defined more by optimism and generosity than by selfishness and cynicism.
    Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 1 May 2026
Noun
  • The accompanying bathroom sports dual quartz vanities and an oversize porcelain shower topped by an arched clerestory window.
    Tori Latham, Robb Report, 8 May 2026
  • Bathrooms are also adorned with Calacatta Viola marble vanities and white micro cement showers.
    Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 8 May 2026
Noun
  • In an era when youth sports can sometimes feel corrupted by money, pressure and adult ego, the Lee Corso Legacy Fund serves as a reminder of what sports are supposed to be about in the first place.
    Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 May 2026
  • And today, as young fighters begin to be compared to him, there is no ego—only gratitude.
    Jorge Ebro May 6, Miami Herald, 6 May 2026
Noun
  • 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
  • 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

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Cite this Entry

“Self-interest.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-interest. Accessed 12 May. 2026.

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