# selfishness

/ˈsɛɫfɪʃnəs/ (US) · /sˈɛlfɪʃnəs/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/selfishness
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

the habit of thinking only about yourself and what you want. You show this when you do not care about the needs or feelings of other people.

For teachers: the quality or state of being concerned excessively or exclusively with oneself. Refers to a lack of consideration for others regardless of their needs or interests.

## Examples

- His selfishness made it hard for him to keep friends.
- The team's failure was largely due to the selfishness of a few players who refused to pass the ball.
- Philosophers often debate whether true altruism exists or if every human action is ultimately rooted in some form of psychological selfishness.

## Usage notes

- Typically functions as an abstract noun and does not take a plural form.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.