Altruism

usgb/ˈæltruɪzəm/
noun

The quality of caring about others and doing acts that help them even if it does not benefit you.

Her altruism was evident when she donated all of her lottery winnings to charity.
Visual representation of "altruism" - The quality of caring about others and doing acts that help them even if it does not benefit you

Often appears as...

  • act of altruism
  • show altruism
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "altruism"
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Positive Connotation

Altruism has a positive meaning and is associated with kindness, making it fitting for commendations.

Illustration for Positive Connotation
The altruism of the nurse during the crisis was commendable.
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Humanitarian Context

Use 'altruism' when discussing voluntary work or charity, where there is no expectation of a reward.

Illustration for Humanitarian Context
Volunteers exhibit true altruism by giving their time without expecting anything in return.
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Not Self-Interest

Altruism is the opposite of self-interest; it's helping others, often with a cost to oneself.

Illustration for Not Self-Interest
Despite the risk, his altruism led him to rescue the stranded hikers.
Word comparison image

Compare with

benevolencecharitycompassiongenerositygoodwillhumanitariankindphilanthropyselfless
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Visual representation of the word "Altruism"

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