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self-interested behavior

[self-ˈin-tə-rə-stəd bɪ-ˈheɪ-vjər]
noun
comportamento interesseiro
1. Actions or conduct motivated primarily by personal advantage or gain, often at the expense of others or the collective good
The politician's self-interested behavior alienated many voters who expected him to prioritize public welfare.
O comportamento interesseiro do político afastou muitos eleitores que esperavam que ele priorizasse o bem público.
2. Pursuing one's own interests without regard for the interests of others
His self-interested behavior in the business negotiation left his partner feeling betrayed.
Seu comportamento interesseiro na negociação comercial deixou seu parceiro se sentindo traído.
NYC Slang
looking out for number one
Synonyms
selfish behaviorself-seeking conductopportunistic behaviorcomportamento egoístaconduta oportunista
Antonyms
altruistic behaviorselfless conductphilanthropic behaviorcomportamento altruístaconduta generosa

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
comportamento interesseiro
Most common usage; emphasizes personal interest above all
São Paulo
comportamento egocêntrico
Alternative term, focusing on ego-centered nature
Portugal
comportamento egoísta
Preferred term in European Portuguese, more direct reference to selfishness
General Brazilian
atitude interesseira
Used interchangeably; 'atitude' instead of 'comportamento'

Related Idioms & Phrases

looking after one's own interests
putting oneself first
velar pelos próprios interesses
agir por interesse próprio
levar vantagem em tudo
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