mercenary purpose
[mər-ˈse-nə-rer-ē ˈpər-pəs]
noun phrasepl: mercenary purposes
propósito mercenário
1. A goal or intention motivated primarily by money or financial gain rather than by principle, altruism, or genuine concern
The company's mercenary purpose was to maximize profits at any cost, even if it meant compromising ethical standards.
O propósito mercenário da empresa era maximizar lucros a qualquer custo, mesmo que significasse comprometer padrões éticos.
2. An objective driven by self-interest and greed rather than moral or noble motivations
He pursued the relationship with a mercenary purpose, only interested in her family's wealth.
Ele perseguiu o relacionamento com um propósito mercenário, interessado apenas na riqueza de sua família.
This phrase is commonly used in both American and Brazilian contexts to criticize or describe corporate behavior, political motivations, or personal relationships driven by financial gain rather than principle. In Brazil, it appears frequently in critical journalism and academic discourse about corruption and business ethics. In the USA, it's used to characterize perceived greed in capitalist ventures and political campaigns.
NYC Slang
money-hungry agenda; greedy play
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