selfishly

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈsɛlfɪʃli/

KK: /ˈsɛlfɪʃli/

adverb

Definition

In a way that shows concern only for oneself and not for others.

Example

He acted selfishly by taking the last piece of cake without asking anyone else.

Conversation

I think she acted a bit selfishly during the meeting.

Yeah, it seemed like she only cared about her own ideas.

Exactly! It’s frustrating when people think selfishly like that.

I know, right? Teamwork is all about collaboration!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

greedily

narrowly

self-centeredly

Antonyms

altruistically

generously

unselfishly

Root Explanation

Selfishly → It is formed from "self" (from Old English "seolf", meaning oneself) and "-ish" (meaning having the quality of). The word "selfishly" means having the quality of being concerned only with oneself.

Memory Tip

Think of 'self' as referring to oneself, and '-ish' indicating a quality. This helps you remember that 'selfishly' describes someone who is focused only on their own needs.

Visually Confused Words

elfishly