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Unselfishly: meaning, definitions and examples

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unselfishly

 

[ʌn'sɛlfɪʃli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

used to describe actions done without selfishness

In an unselfish manner; without concern for one's own advantage or welfare.

Synonyms

altruistically, generously, selflessly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unselfishly

This word can be used again in a similar context as the first instance, referring to actions performed without concern for personal gain.

  • Volunteers unselfishly dedicated their weekend to cleaning up the park
selflessly

This word applies when actions are taken with complete disregard for one's own interests, often in extreme or heroic contexts.

  • The firefighter selflessly entered the burning building to save the trapped pets
altruistically

This term is suitable for situations where actions are driven by the desire to help others, often associated with moral or ethical motivations.

  • He donated his entire bonus to charity, acting altruistically
generously

It is appropriate to describe actions that involve giving more than what is usual or expected, whether it be time, money, or resources.

  • They generously provided food and shelter for the stranded travelers

Examples of usage

  • She unselfishly helped her friend with the project.
  • He unselfishly donated his time to volunteer at the shelter.
  • They unselfishly put the needs of others before their own.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The prefix 'un-' means 'not,' so 'unselfishly' suggests 'not selfish' or 'thinking of others.'
  • The root 'selfish' originates from the word 'self,' first used in the early 17th century.
  • Adding the suffix '-ly' turns an adjective into an adverb, describing the manner of doing something.

Psychology

  • Research shows that unselfish acts trigger the brain’s reward system, making people feel happier.
  • Helping others has been linked to improved mental health, reducing feelings of depression and stress.
  • The 'helper's high' phenomenon indicates that altruistic behavior can lead to lasting feelings of well-being.

Philosophy

  • Many philosophers, like Kant, emphasize the importance of acting unselfishly as a moral duty.
  • Utilitarianism supports unselfish behavior as actions that promote the greatest good for the greatest number.
  • Altruism poses an ethical challenge: can humans act unselfishly, or are all actions motivated by self-interest?

Culture

  • Various cultures celebrate unselfishness through festivals and community service events, acknowledging those who help others.
  • In some traditions, unselfishness is viewed as a virtue, and individuals are honored for their charitable acts.
  • Literature often features characters who embody unselfishness, showing its importance in moral stories.

Social Impact

  • Unselfish acts can lead to stronger community bonds and a collective sense of belonging.
  • Movements focused on helping others, like charity drives or volunteer work, highlight how unselfishness impacts society positively.
  • Social scientists note that witnessing unselfish behavior can inspire others to act similarly, creating a ripple effect.

Translations

Translations of the word "unselfishly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 altruisticamente

🇮🇳 निःस्वार्थ रूप से

🇩🇪 selbstlos

🇮🇩 tanpa pamrih

🇺🇦 безкорисливо

🇵🇱 bezinteresownie

🇯🇵 無私に

🇫🇷 désintéressé

🇪🇸 desinteresadamente

🇹🇷 fedakârca

🇰🇷 이타적으로

🇸🇦 بلا أنانية

🇨🇿 nesobecky

🇸🇰 nesebecky

🇨🇳 无私地

🇸🇮 nesebično

🇮🇸 óeigingjarnt

🇰🇿 өзімшіл емес

🇬🇪 თავდაჯერებულად

🇦🇿 özünü fədakarcasına

🇲🇽 desinteresadamente

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,396 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.