Definition

Adverb: In a manner that is concerned chiefly or excessively with one's own personal profit, benefit, or pleasure, with little or no regard for others.

Usage

The adverb "selfishly" describes how an action is performed. It modifies verbs to indicate that the action is done with a self-centered motive. * It typically carries a negative connotation, implying that the person's actions are unfair or inconsiderate. * It answers the question "How did they act?" with the implication of "for their own benefit only."

Examples

• He selfishly took the last piece of cake without asking if anyone else wanted it.
• She acted selfishly by prioritizing her own vacation over her team's urgent project deadline.
• Parking in the disabled spot when you are able-bodied is a selfishly thoughtless act.
• "Don't selfishly hoard all the supplies," the leader warned.

Advanced Usage

• "To act/think/live selfishly": This is a common collocation describing a general pattern of self-centered behavior.
  • He has lived selfishly his entire life, never considering how his choices affect his family.
• Modifying Adjectives: "Selfishly" can sometimes modify adjectives like "motivated" or "driven."
  • His decision was selfishly motivated by greed.

Variants and Related Words

• Selfish (adjective): Having or showing concern only for oneself and not for the needs or feelings of others.
  • That was a selfish thing to do.
• Selfishness (noun): The quality or state of being selfish.
  • His selfishness eventually cost him all his friends.
• Unselfishly (adverb): The opposite of "selfishly"; in a manner that considers the needs of others.
  • She unselfishly donated her time to the charity.

Synonyms

• Egocentrically
• Self-centeredly
• Inconsiderately
• Greedily
• Thoughtlessly (in the context of ignoring others)

Antonyms

• Unselfishly
• Selflessly
• Altruistically
• Considerately
• Generously

Adverb

1. in an egotistical manner
   • he behaved egotistically