Selflessly: meaning, definitions and examples

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selflessly

 

[ ˈsɛlf.ləs.li ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

in a generous or unselfish manner

Selflessly means to act without concern for oneself, putting the needs of others first. It is characterized by a lack of selfishness or self-interest.

Synonyms

altruistically, generously, unselfishly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
selflessly

Used when someone does something for others without considering their own interests or benefits. Often implies deep personal sacrifice.

  • She worked selflessly to help the homeless, never thinking about her own needs
unselfishly

Similar to 'selflessly,' but more common in everyday speech. Indicates a willingness to put others' needs before one's own. Lacks the intensity of 'selflessly.'

  • He unselfishly gave his time to help his friend move to a new house
altruistically

Used in more formal contexts to describe someone who acts out of a desire to help others, often at a personal cost. Associated with moral and ethical considerations.

  • He donated a large sum of money to charity, acting altruistically for the greater good
generously

Used when someone gives freely of their time, money, or resources to others. Implies abundance and willingness to give more than needed.

  • She generously offered to pay for everyone's meal

Examples of usage

  • She selflessly volunteered to help those in need.
  • He selflessly donated his time to the charity event.
  • They selflessly sacrificed their own comfort for the benefit of others.
Context #2 | Adverb

without regard for personal gain or benefit

Selflessly can also mean to act without expecting anything in return, without seeking personal advantage or benefit.

Synonyms

altruistically, generously, unselfishly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
selflessly

When someone performs an action without any concern for their own benefit or gain, often putting others' needs ahead of their own.

  • She worked selflessly to ensure her team succeeded.
  • He cared for the children selflessly, as if they were his own.
unselfishly

When someone acts without selfish motives, often considering the welfare of others in their decisions.

  • She unselfishly helped her friend move, even though she had a busy schedule.
  • He unselfishly put his own plans aside to support his family.
altruistically

Used when actions are motivated purely by a desire to help others, often at a personal cost or without expecting anything in return.

  • Doctors without Borders work altruistically to provide medical aid in crisis zones.
  • She donated a large sum of money to the charity, acting purely altruistically.
generously

Describing an action that involves giving more of something, such as money, time, or effort, than is usual or expected.

  • He gave generously to the local food bank.
  • They generously shared their resources with the community.

Examples of usage

  • She selflessly devoted herself to the cause without expecting recognition.
  • He selflessly offered his assistance without asking for anything in return.

Translations

Translations of the word "selflessly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 altruisticamente

🇮🇳 निःस्वार्थ भाव से

🇩🇪 selbstlos

🇮🇩 dengan tidak mementingkan diri sendiri

🇺🇦 безкорисливо

🇵🇱 bezinteresownie

🇯🇵 利他的に

🇫🇷 désintéressé

🇪🇸 desinteresadamente

🇹🇷 fedakarca

🇰🇷 이타적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل غير أناني

🇨🇿 nesobecky

🇸🇰 nezištne

🇨🇳 无私地

🇸🇮 nesebično

🇮🇸 ósjálfselskur

🇰🇿 өзін-өзі ойламай

🇬🇪 თავისგან თავისუფლად

🇦🇿 özünü düşünmədən

🇲🇽 desinteresadamente

Etymology

The word 'selflessly' is derived from the adjective 'selfless,' which dates back to the early 19th century. The concept of selflessness has been praised in various philosophical and ethical traditions, emphasizing the importance of considering the well-being of others. The adverb 'selflessly' captures the essence of acting with generosity and altruism, highlighting the noble qualities of individuals who prioritize the needs of others over their own.

See also: self, selfhood, selfish, selfless, selflessness, unselfish, unselfishly.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,584 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.