Altruistically: meaning, definitions and examples

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altruistically

[ˌæltruˈɪstɪkli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

behavior

In a manner that shows a selfless concern for the well-being of others; unselfishly.

Synonyms

generously, selflessly, unselfishly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
altruistically	Used when describing actions done with a selfless concern for the well-being of others. Often used in more formal or academic contexts. She devoted her life to helping the homeless, working altruistically without seeking any recognition. The organization functions altruistically, aiming solely to improve the quality of life for underprivileged children.
selflessly	Describes actions taken without any thought to one's own advantage, often highlighting personal sacrifice. Common in both formal and informal contexts. The firefighter entered the burning building selflessly to save the trapped children. Parents often act selflessly, prioritizing their children's needs above their own.
unselfishly	Used in a similar way to 'selflessly', highlighting actions performed without selfish motives, but might slightly emphasize a lack of selfishness rather than outright sacrifice. He unselfishly gave his winning ticket to his friend, who needed the prize money more. She works unselfishly on the committee, always considering the benefits for the whole community.
generously	Appropriate when referring to actions marked by a willingness to give more of something, especially money or time, than is strictly necessary or expected. Can be used in everyday conversations. He generously donated to the local animal shelter. She always shares her knowledge generously with her students.

Examples of usage

She always acted altruistically, putting the needs of others before her own.
He altruistically donated his time and money to help those in need.
The organization was founded with the goal of altruistically improving the lives of disadvantaged children.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

motive

With a focus on promoting the welfare of others rather than personal gain.

Synonyms

benevolently, selflessly, unselfishly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
altruistically	This word is suitable when one wants to emphasize actions done with genuine concern for others' well-being, often at a personal cost. She altruistically donated a kidney to save a stranger's life He worked altruistically at the shelter, never asking for anything in return
selflessly	Use this term when highlighting actions where an individual puts others' needs before their own without seeking any personal gain. The firefighter selflessly jumped into the burning building to save the child She selflessly volunteered her time every weekend to help feed the homeless
unselfishly	This word focuses on the absence of selfishness, often implying that someone is acting in a way that benefits others, even if it might not benefit themselves. He unselfishly shared his award money with his teammates She unselfishly gave up her seat on the crowded bus for the elderly man
benevolently	This word should be used when describing kind-hearted actions or behavior that aims to do good or offer help, often associated with a kind and well-meaning attitude. The local businessman benevolently sponsored the orphanage's annual event She benevolently offered support and guidance to the new employees

Examples of usage

She acted altruistically, expecting nothing in return.
His altruistic motives were evident in his actions.
They altruistically volunteered to help clean up the park.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'alter', meaning 'other', which reflects the idea of putting others before oneself.
Originally used in the 19th century, it was popularized by philosopher Auguste Comte, who believed it was important to care for others.

Psychology

Research shows that performing altruistic acts can improve your own happiness, creating a ‘helper’s high’.
Studies indicate that people who engage in altruism often experience lower stress and better overall well-being.

Philosophy

Philosophers have long debated the morality of altruism, questioning whether selfless acts are truly unselfish.
Utilitarianism promotes the idea that actions should be taken to maximize happiness for the greatest number of people, aligning closely with altruism.

Culture

Many cultures celebrate altruism through the concept of 'community service', emphasizing collective care and helping.
In various religious texts, altruistic behavior is encouraged as a path to spiritual enlightenment and moral righteousness.

Animal Behavior

Many animal species, such as dolphins and chimpanzees, display altruistic behavior by helping injured or sick members of their group.
Some scientists suggest that altruism in animals evolved as a survival mechanism, as helping others can lead to greater community success.

Translations

Translations of the word "altruistically" in other languages:

🇵🇹 altruisticamente

🇮🇳 परमार्थ भाव से

🇩🇪 altruistisch

🇮🇩 dengan altruistik

🇺🇦 альтруїстично

🇵🇱 altruistycznie

🇯🇵 利他的に

🇫🇷 altruiste

🇪🇸 altruistamente

🇹🇷 altrüistçe

🇰🇷 이타적으로

🇸🇦 بإيثار

🇨🇿 altruisticky

🇸🇰 altruisticky

🇨🇳 利他主义地

🇸🇮 altruistično

🇮🇸 óeigingjarnt

🇰🇿 альтруистікалық

🇬🇪 ალტრუისტულად

🇦🇿 altruistlikcə

🇲🇽 altruistamente

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,402, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

...
38399 raucously
38400 didactically
38401 yahoo
38402 altruistically
38403 constipating
38404 impalement
38405 unintelligibly
...