Meaning & Definition of word "Selfishness"
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Selfishness
/ˈsɛlfɪʃnɛs/
noun:
- 1. The quality or state of being self-centered or concerned excessively with one's own advantage to the exclusion of others.
- Example: Her selfishness was evident when she refused to share her toys with her friends.
- 2. Concern for one's own welfare or interests without regard for others.
- Example: The selfishness of their actions led to a breakdown in relationships within the team.
- 3. The act of prioritizing personal benefit at the expense of others' needs or feelings.
- Example: His selfishness showed when he accepted the promotion without considering the impact on his colleagues.
- 4. A lack of consideration for others' feelings or well-being.
- Example: Her selfishness meant that she often overlooked the sacrifices her friends made for her.
Etymology
From self + -ish + -ness.
Common Phrases and Expressions
put oneself first:
To prioritize one's own needs or desires above all else.
in it for oneself:
Acting primarily with one's own benefit in mind.
me first:
A selfish attitude that places one's own pleasure as the priority.
Related Words
self-centered:
Concerned only with one's own thoughts and interests.
narcissistic:
Having an excessive interest in oneself and one's appearance.
egotistical:
Excessively conceited or absorbed in oneself.
Slang Meanings of selfishness
Meaning: Me-first mentality
Example Sentence: He has such a me-first mentality that he never thinks about anyone else.
Meaning: All about me
Example Sentence: Her attitude is all about me; she doesn't care about group decisions.