self-serving purpose
[/self ˈsɜrvɪŋ ˈpɜrpəs/]
noun phrasepl: self-serving purposes
propósito egoísta
1. an objective or intention that primarily benefits oneself rather than others; a goal motivated by personal gain or advantage rather than altruism or the greater good
He donated to the charity for self-serving purposes, hoping to improve his public image.
Ele doou para a caridade com propósitos egoístas, esperando melhorar sua imagem pública.
2. an underlying motivation that conceals selfish intent behind an apparently generous or noble action
Critics argued that the politician's environmental initiative was driven by self-serving purposes.
Críticos argumentaram que a iniciativa ambiental do político era impulsionada por propósitos egoístas.
This phrase is commonly used in both American and Brazilian contexts to critique political figures, business leaders, and public figures. In Brazil, discussing someone's 'propósitos egoístas' is a frequent part of political discourse and social commentary. In the USA, it's often used in journalistic and critical discourse to question the authenticity of public figures' charitable or philanthropic actions.
NYC Slang
playing dirty / looking out for number one / angle
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