self-interest
noun
self-in·ter·est
ˌself-ˈin-t(ə-)rəst 
-ˈin-tə-ˌrest,
-ˌtrest;
-ˈin-tərst
1
: a concern for one's own advantage and well-being
acted out of self-interest and fear
2
: one's own interest or advantage
self-interest requires that we be generous in foreign aid
self-interestedly
adverb
self-interestedness
noun
Examples of self-interest in a Sentence
her degree of self-interest is perhaps best reflected in her favorite topic of conversation—herself
Recent Examples on the Web
Yet critics argue that hegemonic systems often mask the self-interest of the dominant state, using consent to obscure coercion.
—
Andrew Latham, The Conversation, 30 May 2025
Another study in 2014 found that the youngest party members are more likely to report self-interest, such as helping their careers, advancing politically and improving social status, as their reasons for joining.
—Jennifer Jett, NBC news, 29 May 2025
Presidents presumably would be more inclined to think more about the national interest and less about their self-interest.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 29 May 2025
The twist: individual indulgences reduce winnings for the entire group, testing loyalty versus self-interest over two weeks.
—Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 27 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-interest
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Andrew Latham, The Conversation, 30 May 2025
Another study in 2014 found that the youngest party members are more likely to report self-interest, such as helping their careers, advancing politically and improving social status, as their reasons for joining.
—Jennifer Jett, NBC news, 29 May 2025
Presidents presumably would be more inclined to think more about the national interest and less about their self-interest.
—Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 29 May 2025
The twist: individual indulgences reduce winnings for the entire group, testing loyalty versus self-interest over two weeks.
—Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 27 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-interest
Cite this Entry
“Self-interest.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-interest. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.
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