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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of self-interest Because the group of women who still vote against their own self-interest are white married women. — Taylor Ardrey, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2026 Enforcing environmental regulations is entirely defensible self-interest. — Charles Edward Gehrke, Fortune, 28 Aug. 2026 None of them matter, not to a president who has taken self-interest to new heights. — New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 28 Aug. 2026 China’s foreign policy reflects self-interest and traditional caution regarding military force. — Arthur I. Cyr, Chicago Tribune, 18 Aug. 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

My suite was beyond spacious, with a full entryway with desk and wetbar giving way to a seating area; large, plush bed; then a closet and vanity area leading into a massive bathroom—which had a full soaking tub and two pedestal sinks.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
HomePop Clover Shaped Ottoman A decorative pouf can wear many hats—vanity seating, an extra chair for company, or even a foot stool in lieu of a chaise.

— Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 6 Oct. 2026

Definition of vanity

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