altruism - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
altruism Word Meanings
- a selfless concern for the welfare of others
- the practice of helping others even at a personal cost
- a doctrine or principle that places others' interests before one's own
altruism Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
altruism Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈæl.truː.ɪ.zəm/
US
/ˈæl.truː.ɪ.zəm/
altruism Word Etymology
Root decomposition: altru- derives from Latin alter meaning other, combined with the noun suffix -ism to form a doctrine. Historical origin: the word was coined in the 19th century by Auguste Comte, from French altruisme and Italian altruismo, ultimately from Latin alter. Memory image: imagine a lantern lit for others, guiding neighbors to share food and help one another, making the street glow with care.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Altruism refers to a genuine concern for other people’s well-being that goes beyond self-interest. It can be a spontaneous act of kindness or a long-term commitment to helping others, even at personal cost. In philosophical terms, it is contrasted with egoism, yet many cultures celebrate acts of altruism as essential social glue. The word is often linked to the French altruisme and Italian altruismo, ultimately tracing back to Latin alter meaning other. In everyday usage, you might describe a neighbor who shares meals, a volunteer who stays late to assist strangers, or a donor who sacrifices comfort for a cause. Remember the memory image: a lantern lit for others guiding a community toward care.
Usage Reminders
- - Remember to use altruism with an explicit cost to the giver.
- - Distinguish altruism from charity or mere kindness.
- - Note the everyday, not just heroic, instances.
- - Watch for expressions of motive and expectation.
- - Use the memory image (lantern guiding others) to recall the concept.
- - Practice with real-life scenarios to build nuance.
Common Misconceptions
- Altruism means never looking after your own needs.
- Altruism requires grand, dramatic sacrifices.
- Altruism is the same as generosity without cost.
- Altruism is the opposite of self-care.
- Altruism is rare and unrealistic in modern society.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: English tends to separate altruism from simple kindness and often highlights the cost to the giver; learners may miss implicit costs or motives in real scenarios.
Learning Tips
- 1) Learn common collocations like altruistic behavior and altruistic act.
- 2) Separate altruism from mere charity by considering cost to the giver.
- 3) Compare with synonyms: kindness, generosity, benevolence.
- 4) Use the lantern memory cue to recall the idea of guiding others.
- 5) Practice by noting everyday examples of helping others.
- 6) Check translations in other languages to see cultural nuance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'altruism' mean?
A.A form of investment strategy
B.Selfless concern for the well-being of others
C.A type of social media
D.An emotional response to fame
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence using 'altruism'.
A.The charity was founded on the principle of altruism.
B.His altruism for gaining profit was evident in his business practices.
C.Altruism is a delicious dish served in many restaurants.
D.She showed altruism when she sold her car.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following words is most similar to 'altruism'?
A.Selfishness
B.Benevolence
C.Indifference
D.Avarice
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'altruism'?
A.Generosity
B.Compassion
C.Selfishness
D.Charity
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where altruism is demonstrated?
A.Someone buying the latest smartphone despite not needing it.
B.A person donating money anonymously to help those in need.
C.A star posting selfies on social media to gain followers.
D.An individual focusing solely on their career advancement without regard for others.
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