altruistic
al-troo-ISS-tik
/ˌæl.truˈɪs.tɪk/
Showing a disinterested and selfless concern for the well-being of others.
Focuses on moral philosophy and pure motivation; acting for the benefit of others without expecting personal gain.
The story behind the word. Coined in the 19th century by French philosopher Auguste Comte as 'altruisme', this word was built from the Italian 'altrui' (belonging to others), which comes from Latin 'alter'. Comte created the term to define a moral doctrine opposite to egoism. It entered English in the 1850s as a technical term in ethics before expanding into popular usage.
Word relationships
- selfless: Selfless is broader and common; altruistic often carries a philosophical or moral undertone.
- philanthropic: Philanthropic specifically implies organized or financial efforts to help humanity.
- egoistic: Egoistic means driven entirely by self-interest and personal gain.
- selfish: Selfish implies a direct disregard for the needs of others in favor of oneself.
Commonly confused with
- egoistic: Egoistic focuses on self-serving desires, whereas altruistic focuses on benefiting others.
Word family
- altruism (noun): The belief in or practice of disinterested concern for others.
- altruist (noun): A person who demonstrates unselfish concern for others.
- altruistically (adverb): In an unselfish or devoted manner.
Collocations
- altruistic behavior
- altruistic motives
- purely altruistic
- altruistic nature
Example sentences
- "Her decision to donate her life savings to the medical research foundation was a purely altruistic act." Describing human moral potential
- "Philosophers continue to debate whether true altruistic behavior exists or if every action yields a subtle personal benefit." Philosophical discussion on human nature
Memory hook
Think of 'ALL TRUE to ALL OTHERS' — an altruistic person stays true to helping others rather than themselves. ALL-TRUE to OTHERS.
When not to use
Do not use to describe simple everyday politeness, such as holding a door; reserve it for substantial devotion to others' welfare.
Fun facts
- Auguste Comte invented the term specifically to give secular philosophy an exact counterweight to religious concepts of charity.
Related words
Explore more words
altruism, benevolent, compassionate, solicitous, philanthropist, accommodating
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