Spanish word

egoísta

Pronunciation

IPA/eɣoˈista/

Meaning

  • adjectiveselfish

Example

Nunca presta porque es egoísta.

He never lends because he is selfish.

Illustration for egoísta (selfish)

More examples

Una decisión egoísta puede herir a los demás.

A selfish decision can hurt others.

Core concept

Person acting without regard for others' needs.

Common phrases

  • ser egoísta

    be selfish

  • persona egoísta

    selfish person

Similar words

egocéntrico: Sees situations mainly from own point of view and pays little attention to others' perspectives.
interesado: Builds relationships primarily to obtain personal benefit, acting friendly when useful.
tacaño: Reluctant to spend or share money or possessions, preferring to save rather than give.
insolidario: Withholds help or cooperation, failing to support people in trouble or the group's needs.

Definition in Spanish

Que muestra una conducta centrada en sí mismo y no comparte ni ayuda cuando otros lo necesitan.

Word origin

Derived from Latin ego 'I' plus the suffix -ista 'one characterized by', the modern Spanish form also reflects French influence from égoïste.

Usage tips

  • Use ser to describe a habitual trait (es egoísta) and estar siendo or ha sido un poco egoísta to signal a temporary selfish action.

Other meanings

  • egoistnoun

Opposites

Related words

  • egoísmoselfishnessnoun
  • egoístamenteselfishlyadverb

Word lists with this word