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Wordabulary

altruism

Pronunciation
Noun B2 Upper-intermediate

Quick answer

Unselfish concern for the wellbeing of others.

"Volunteering at the shelter every weekend was, for her, an act of pure altruism."

Synonyms and antonyms

Synonyms

selflessness generosity

Antonyms

selfishness egoism

Usage notes

The adjective form is "altruistic", as in "an altruistic act".

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "Volunteering at the shelter every weekend was, for her, an act of pure _____."

Answer: altruism

In your own words, what does "altruism" mean?

Unselfish concern for the wellbeing of others.

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