Altruistic: meaning, definitions and examples

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altruistic

 

[ ˌæltruˈɪstɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

kindness towards others

Showing a selfless concern for the well-being of others; unselfish.

Synonyms

benevolent, generous, philanthropic, selfless.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
altruistic

Ideal for describing someone who puts others' needs above their own, often sacrificing personal gain.

  • Her altruistic nature led her to volunteer at the homeless shelter every weekend
selfless

Ideal for situations where someone consistently acts without considering their own interests, purely for the benefit of others.

  • His selfless actions during the crisis saved many lives, but he never sought recognition
benevolent

Used to describe a person or organization that is kind and desires to help others, often in a broader, more generalized manner.

  • The benevolent old man donated a large sum to the local animal rescue
generous

Best for highlighting someone's willingness to give more than expected or required, usually in terms of money, time, or resources.

  • She was generous with her time, always ready to help her friends and family
philanthropic

Typically used to describe individuals or organizations that make large-scale efforts to promote the welfare of others, often through significant charitable donations.

  • The philanthropic foundation funded numerous educational programs in underdeveloped regions

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.
Context #2 | Adjective

behavior

Characterized by unselfish concern for the welfare of others.

Synonyms

benevolent, generous, philanthropic, selfless.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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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.

  • Her altruistic nature led her to volunteer at the local shelter every weekend
selfless

Describes someone who prioritizes the needs and welfare of others over their own interests. It's often used in a very positive light.

  • Her selfless acts of kindness made her a beloved figure in the community
benevolent

Applied to individuals or actions that are kind and generous without expecting anything in return. Often used to describe gestures or attitudes.

  • The benevolent man donated a large sum to the orphanage
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.

  • She is always generous with her time, helping her friends whenever they need support
philanthropic

Typically used for people or organizations that support charitable causes on a larger scale, often with financial donations.

  • The philanthropic foundation funded multiple scholarships for underprivileged students

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.