Selfish: meaning, definitions and examples

Generally used to describe someone who puts their own needs above others without considering how it affects those around them. It often has a negative connotation.

• She didn't share her snacks and kept everything for herself, which was very selfish of her

Often used in more formal or psychological contexts to describe someone who centers everything around themselves. It implies a limited or non-existent concern for others' perspectives.

• The egocentric leader made all the decisions without consulting his team

Typically used to describe someone who is concerned only with their own needs and wants, often without regard for others. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can have a negative implication.

• Her self-centered behavior made it difficult for her to maintain friendships

Used to describe individuals who are deeply preoccupied with their own thoughts, interests, or problems, often ignoring or overlooking others in the process. It can be slightly less negative than other terms but still not complimentary.

• Despite being in a group, he remained self-absorbed, hardly engaging in conversation

Describes someone who has an inflated sense of their own importance. This word can be used in both casual and formal settings, usually carrying a negative tone.

• His egotistical attitude made him believe no one else could complete the job as well as he could

Use this word when someone is only concerned with their own advantage at the expense of others. It often has a negative connotation.

• He is so selfish; he never shares his ideas with the team.
• Being selfish won't earn you any friends.

This term is used when describing actions or behaviors that benefit oneself, often at the expense of others, and usually has a negative implication.

• His self-serving comments during the meeting annoyed everyone.
• The charity event turned out to be a self-serving publicity stunt.

This term is often used in a neutral or slightly negative sense to describe someone acting in their own benefit, sometimes taking into consideration the larger context.

• His decision to leave the company was purely self-interested.
• Politicians are often perceived as self-interested.

Use this word to describe someone who is pursuing their own interests, especially in a way that is perceived as negative or lacking consideration for others.

• Her self-seeking actions alienated her colleagues.
• The company was criticized for its self-seeking policies.

This term describes someone who allows themselves to enjoy pleasures or pursue desires excessively. It can have a mild negative connotation.

• Her self-indulgent spending habits landed her in debt.
• He spent a self-indulgent weekend relaxing and eating his favorite foods.