What Is Another Way to Say “Self-Serving”?

Looking for synonyms for self-serving? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say self-serving.

  • Selfish
  • Egocentric
  • Self-centered
  • Narcissistic
  • Self-interested
  • Opportunistic
  • Egoistical
  • Self-absorbed
  • Greedy
  • Self-seeking
  • Self-focused
  • Individualistic
  • Mercenary
  • Self-involved
  • Personal gain-oriented

Want to learn how to say self-serving professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Selfish

Used when someone prioritizes their own interests at the expense of others.
Example: “His selfish approach to team projects often left his colleagues with extra work.”

2. Egocentric

Appropriate for describing behavior that is centered around oneself, disregarding others.
Example: “The manager’s egocentric decision-making disregarded the team’s input.”

3. Self-centered

Used when someone’s actions are focused predominantly on their own needs and wants.
Example: “Her self-centered attitude during the meeting overlooked the team’s concerns.”

4. Narcissistic

Refers to an excessive interest in oneself and one’s physical appearance or importance.
Example: “His narcissistic tendencies made it difficult to collaborate on shared goals.”

5. Self-interested

Describes behavior driven by personal benefit or gain.
Example: “He was known for his self-interested negotiations that favored his own outcomes.”

6. Opportunistic

Suitable for actions that take advantage of situations for personal gain, often unethically.
Example: “Her opportunistic tactics in acquiring clients were questioned by her peers.”

7. Egoistical

Indicates excessive self-importance or consideration for oneself over others.
Example: “The egoistical CEO rarely considered employee feedback in his decisions.”

8. Self-absorbed

Describes someone who is preoccupied with their own affairs, emotions, or interests.
Example: “The self-absorbed director seldom recognized the achievements of his team.”

9. Greedy

Used to describe excessive or rapacious desire, especially for wealth or possessions.
Example: “His greedy pursuit of profits compromised the company’s ethical standards.”

10. Self-seeking

Refers to the pursuit of one’s own welfare or advantage, often cunningly or ruthlessly.
Example: “The self-seeking executive manipulated information to gain a promotion.”

11. Self-focused

Describes someone who is primarily interested in themselves and their own activities.
Example: “The self-focused manager often ignored the developmental needs of her team.”

12. Individualistic

Suitable for someone who prioritizes personal independence and self-reliance.
Example: “His individualistic approach sometimes isolated him from collaborative opportunities.”

13. Mercenary

Used in contexts where actions are driven by a desire for monetary or material gain.
Example: “The consultant’s mercenary motives were evident in his business dealings.”

14. Self-involved

Describes a person who is only concerned with their own interests and feelings.
Example: “The self-involved attitude of the leader led to a lack of trust among employees.”

15. Personal gain-oriented

Indicates actions or attitudes focused on achieving personal benefits or success.
Example: “His personal gain-oriented strategy in the company prioritized profits over people.”

Linda Brown