Altruism
What it means
Concern for others' well-being that is not driven by personal gain.
Reach for it when describing a motive that places another person's benefit first
Quiet altruism kept the free pantry stocked through winter.
Words to choose between 6
| everyday | |
|---|---|
| warm | |
| professional | |
| formal |
|
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everyday
Fits when freely giving resources or attention is visible
Careful Generosity may bring status, pleasure, or reciprocal benefit.
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warm
Fits when suffering moves someone to care
Careful Compassion is an emotion and need not produce altruistic action.
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warm
Fits when lack of self-interest is the defining trait
Careful Selflessness can imply unhealthy neglect of legitimate personal needs.
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professional
public spirit
Fits when action benefits the wider community
Careful Public spirit can align with reputation or civic duty rather than pure altruism.
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formal
Fits when kind intention toward others matters
Careful Benevolence can remain paternal or inactive.
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formal
Fits when organized giving of private resources is the method
Careful Philanthropy can preserve power and does not prove altruistic motive.
Opposites 3
- selfishness
- egoism
- greed
Common phrases 3
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act of altruism
Donating the anonymous prize was an act of altruism.
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pure altruism
The study asks whether pure altruism can be measured.
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everyday altruism
Everyday altruism appeared in meals shared with isolated neighbors.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Vealhurl, Southern England accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 Updated