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selfish motive

[ˈsɛlfɪʃ ˈmoʊtɪv]
nounpl: selfish motives
motivo egoísta
1. A reason or incentive for an action that is primarily driven by personal gain or self-interest, without concern for others
His selfish motive for helping was only to gain recognition and praise.
Seu motivo egoísta para ajudar era apenas ganhar reconhecimento e elogio.
2. An underlying reason for behavior that prioritizes one's own benefit over the well-being or interests of others
She questioned whether his donation came from genuine charity or selfish motives.
Ela questionou se sua doação era de caridade genuína ou motivada por interesses egoístas.
NYC Slang
selfish move / out for yourself
Synonyms
self-interestulterior motivepersonal gainegoistic purposeself-serving intention
Antonyms
altruistic motivecharitable intentionselfless purposebenevolent intentphilanthropic goal

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
motivo egoísta
Standard usage throughout Brazil
São Paulo
motivo interesseiro
Alternative colloquial term emphasizing self-interest
Portugal
motivo egoísta
Standard European Portuguese usage

Related Idioms & Phrases

have an axe to grind
in it for oneself
looking out for number one
wearing one's heart on one's sleeve (antonym)
put oneself first
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