self-interest: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Academic, Economic, Political
Quick answer
What does “self-interest” mean?
The pursuit of one's own personal advantage or benefit, especially when it conflicts with the interests of others.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The pursuit of one's own personal advantage or benefit, especially when it conflicts with the interests of others.
A rational motivation based on the calculation of personal gain; the principle or habit of judging actions primarily by their consequences for oneself.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The term is equally common in academic, political, and journalistic registers in both varieties.
Connotations
In both varieties, it often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of regard for others, especially in moral discourse. In economic discourse, it is more neutral.
Frequency
Slightly more common in British political and economic discourse, but the difference is negligible.
Grammar
How to Use “self-interest” in a Sentence
In [NP], self-interest often overrides [NP] (e.g., ethical considerations).It is in one's self-interest to [VP] (e.g., to cooperate).[NP] driven by naked self-interest.[NP] out of pure self-interest.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “self-interest” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He made a self-interested decision.
- They are acting in a purely self-interested manner.
American English
- It was a self-interested vote.
- His argument seemed self-interested and biased.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Refers to the pursuit of profit and competitive advantage. 'The merger was a clear move of corporate self-interest.'
Academic
A key concept in economics (Adam Smith) and political theory. 'The model assumes actors are guided purely by rational self-interest.'
Everyday
Describes someone acting selfishly. 'He only helped me out of self-interest, hoping for a favour later.'
Technical
Used in game theory and rational choice theory to denote utility-maximizing behavior.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “self-interest”
Strong
Neutral
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “self-interest”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “self-interest”
- Spelling as one word ('selfinterest') or two separate words ('self interest') – the hyphen is standard.
- Confusing with 'selfishness' – 'selfishness' is purely negative and emotional; 'self-interest' can be neutral and rational.
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'He self-interested') – it is only a noun.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, not always. In economics and philosophy, it is a neutral term describing basic human motivation. 'Enlightened self-interest' is seen as positive. In everyday moral language, it often has a negative connotation.
'Self-interest' is a broader, more analytical term focusing on the pursuit of personal benefit. 'Selfishness' is specifically a negative character trait implying a lack of consideration for others.
Not directly. The adjectival form is 'self-interested' (e.g., 'a self-interested motive'). The noun form is always 'self-interest'.
Yes, it is a foundational concept in fields like economics, political science, philosophy, and sociology.
The pursuit of one's own personal advantage or benefit, especially when it conflicts with the interests of others.
Self-interest is usually formal, academic, economic, political in register.
Self-interest: in British English it is pronounced /ˌself ˈɪn.tres.t/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌself ˈɪn.t̬ər.est/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Enlightened self-interest (acting for one's own benefit in a way that also benefits others)”
- “Follow the path of self-interest”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
SELF-INTEREST = SELF (you) + INTEREST (what you care about). It's all about what benefits YOU.
Conceptual Metaphor
SELF-INTEREST IS A FORCE/GUIDE (e.g., 'driven by self-interest', 'guided by self-interest').
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following best describes 'enlightened self-interest'?