Mercenarily: meaning, definitions and examples
💰
mercenarily
[ ˈmɜːrsənerɪli ]
manner of behavior
In a mercenary manner means pursuing one's own interests, often for personal gain, without regard for ethical considerations or the welfare of others. This term is commonly used to describe actions that are driven solely by financial or material benefits.
Synonyms
materialistically, profit-driven, selfishly
Examples of usage
- He acted mercenarily in negotiations, seeking only to profit.
- Her mercenary attitude alienated her colleagues.
- The contractor operated mercenarily, cutting corners for profit.
Word origin
The word 'mercenarily' is derived from the adjective 'mercenary,' which originates from the Latin word 'mercenarius,' meaning 'hired' or 'paid.' It was used to describe soldiers who were hired to fight for a foreign army, primarily motivated by financial gain rather than loyalty to a particular cause. The transformation of 'mercenary' into 'mercenarily' as an adverb reflects the growing use of the term to describe not only soldiers but also individuals whose actions and decisions are driven by self-interest or profit. The concept of mercenariness has evolved to encompass a broader range of behaviors in various contexts, extending beyond military service to include business practices, personal relationships, and ethical considerations.