self–interest

noun self–in·ter·est \-ˈin-t(ə-)rəst; -ˈin-tə-ˌrest, -ˌtrest; -ˈin-tərst\

: concern only for getting what you want or need and not about what happens to other people

: your own interest or advantage

Full Definition of SELF-INTEREST

: a concern for one's own advantage and well-being <acted out of self–interest and fear>

: one's own interest or advantage <self–interest requires that we be generous in foreign aid>

— self–in·ter·est·ed adjective

— self–in·ter·est·ed·ly adverb

— self–in·ter·est·ed·ness noun

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1649

Synonyms: egocentricity, egocentrism, egomania, egotism, narcissism, navel-gazing, self-absorption, self-centeredness, self-concern, self-interest, self-involvement, selfishness, selfness, self-preoccupation, self-regard

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