Self-serving

Describing behavior or actions primarily motivated by one's own advantage, benefit, or interest, often at the expense of others or the common good. It implies a lack of concern for the needs or well-being of others, prioritizing personal gain, even if it involves dishonesty, manipulation, or unethical practices. The term suggests a focus on accumulating resources, power, or prestige for oneself, frequently masking these motivations behind a facade of altruism or public service. The individual's choices are driven by a desire to enhance their own position, comfort, or ego, overlooking the potential harm their actions may cause. This contrasts with actions rooted in empathy, fairness, and a genuine concern for the collective welfare.

Self-serving meaning with examples

• The CEO's decision to award himself a massive bonus while laying off hundreds of employees was widely condemned as self-serving. Critics argued his actions prioritized personal wealth over the company's long-term health and the welfare of his workforce, demonstrating a lack of empathy and responsibility. His focus was clearly on enriching himself, regardless of the impact on others.
• The politician's campaign promises, loaded with personal tax cuts, were perceived as a self-serving attempt to garner votes from his wealthy supporters. Detractors believed he was prioritizing his own financial interests and that of his affluent constituency above the needs of the broader population. It was seen as a calculated strategy.
• Her willingness to spread rumors about her colleagues to advance her own career was a clear example of self-serving behavior. She undermined others to gain favor with management, illustrating her relentless pursuit of promotion and her willingness to sacrifice the reputations of her peers to gain an advantage in the office.
• The company's lobbying efforts, focused solely on deregulation that would benefit their profits, were widely criticized as self-serving. They ignored potential environmental consequences and public safety concerns to ensure higher revenues, reflecting a disregard for societal welfare in pursuit of financial gain and competitive edge.
• His seemingly charitable actions were revealed to be self-serving when it was discovered he used the donations to fund his own lavish lifestyle. He exploited the generosity of others for personal gain, revealing a duplicitous nature and highlighting the hollowness of his professed altruism.