Altruistic: meaning, definitions and examples
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altruistic
[ ˌæltruˈɪstɪk ]
kindness towards others
Showing a selfless concern for the well-being of others; unselfish.
Synonyms
benevolent, generous, philanthropic, selfless.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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altruistic |
Ideal for describing someone who puts others' needs above their own, often sacrificing personal gain.
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selfless |
Ideal for situations where someone consistently acts without considering their own interests, purely for the benefit of others.
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benevolent |
Used to describe a person or organization that is kind and desires to help others, often in a broader, more generalized manner.
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generous |
Best for highlighting someone's willingness to give more than expected or required, usually in terms of money, time, or resources.
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philanthropic |
Typically used to describe individuals or organizations that make large-scale efforts to promote the welfare of others, often through significant charitable donations.
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Examples of usage
- He was always ready to help others, displaying his altruistic nature.
- She made an altruistic donation to the charity, without expecting anything in return.
behavior
Characterized by unselfish concern for the welfare of others.
Synonyms
benevolent, generous, philanthropic, selfless.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
altruistic |
Used to describe someone who shows a selfless concern for the well-being of others, often putting others' needs before their own.
|
selfless |
Describes someone who prioritizes the needs and welfare of others over their own interests. It's often used in a very positive light.
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benevolent |
Applied to individuals or actions that are kind and generous without expecting anything in return. Often used to describe gestures or attitudes.
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generous |
Refers to someone who is willing to give more of something than is usual or expected, whether it's time, money, or kindness. Generally positive.
|
philanthropic |
Typically used for people or organizations that support charitable causes on a larger scale, often with financial donations.
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Examples of usage
- His altruistic actions towards the community earned him respect and admiration.
- The organization was founded on the principles of altruistic service to society.
Translations
Translations of the word "altruistic" in other languages:
🇵🇹 altruísta
🇮🇳 परमार्थी
🇩🇪 altruistisch
🇮🇩 altruistik
🇺🇦 альтруїстичний
🇵🇱 altruistyczny
🇯🇵 利他的
🇫🇷 altruiste
🇪🇸 altruista
🇹🇷 fedakâr
🇰🇷 이타적인
🇸🇦 غيري
🇨🇿 altruistický
🇸🇰 altruistický
🇨🇳 无私的
🇸🇮 altruističen
🇮🇸 ósérhlífinn
🇰🇿 альтруистік
🇬🇪 ალტრუისტული
🇦🇿 fədakar
🇲🇽 altruista
Etymology
The word 'altruistic' comes from the French word 'altruisme', which was coined by the philosopher Auguste Comte in the 19th century. It is derived from the Latin 'alteri', meaning 'other'. The concept of altruism emphasizes selflessness and concern for others, often seen as a virtuous trait in various moral and ethical systems.
See also: altruists.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #18,651, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
- ...
- 18648 lengthen
- 18649 standardize
- 18650 taker
- 18651 altruistic
- 18652 wetness
- 18653 unimproved
- 18654 rabble
- ...