Definition

Noun (uncountable): public spirit refers to a willingness to work for the good of the community or society as a whole, often without personal gain or recognition. It embodies a sense of civic duty and altruism.

Usage Examples

• (She showed a strong willingness to help the community.)
• (The residents acted selflessly for the common good.)
• (He demonstrated a commitment to community welfare.)

Advanced Usage

• "to display public spirit": to show a willingness to contribute to the community.

  • The mayor displayed public spirit by funding a new park. (The mayor acted for the benefit of the public.)

• "lack of public spirit": an absence of concern for the community.

  • The lack of public spirit led to the decline of the local library. (People did not care enough to support it.)

Variants and Related Words

• Public-spirited (adj): having or showing public spirit.
  • She is a public-spirited citizen who always helps her neighbours. (She is generous and civic-minded.)
• Spirit (n): the core meaning here relates to enthusiasm or dedication, but "public spirit" is a fixed phrase.

Synonyms

• Civic-mindedness: a sense of responsibility toward one's community.
• Community spirit: a feeling of shared purpose and support within a group.
• Altruism: selfless concern for the well-being of others.

Related Idioms

• "For the common good": acting in the interest of everyone, not just oneself.
  • They worked for the common good, not for personal profit. (They were motivated by public spirit.)
• "Shoulder to the wheel": putting effort into a collective task.
  • With public spirit, everyone put their shoulder to the wheel to rebuild the school. (Everyone worked hard together.)