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Definitions

self-interest

[self-in-trist, self-, -in-ter-ist] / ˌsɛlfˈɪn trɪst, ˈsɛlf-, -ˈɪn tər ɪst /








Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Adam Smith, by contrast, argued that free enterprise and the uncoordinated pursuit of individual self-interest would lead to better outcomes for more people.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

But the authors’ self-interest can dilute the perception of objectivity.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

The lawsuit claimed the group of advertisers had acted against their own economic self-interest to conspire against the platform - saying this violated US antitrust laws designed to promote fair competition between companies.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

The podcasters have an obvious self-interest in the attention and claims of power—it gets them views and potentially influence.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

The others are, for the most part, figments of someone’s imagination, self-interest, or wishful thinking.

From "Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything" by Steven D. Levitt




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