αλτρουιστικός
Lemma: αλτρουιστικός
Translation: altruistic; selfless; unselfish (adjective)
Etymology: From French 'altruiste', which comes from Italian 'altrui' meaning 'of or to others', ultimately from Latin 'alter' (other). The term was coined by French philosopher Auguste Comte in the 19th century to describe ethical doctrine that promotes selfless concern for the well-being of others. The English cognate 'altruistic' shares the same etymology and meaning.
Example Usage
Η αλτρουιστική της συμπεριφορά εντυπωσίασε όλους.
Her altruistic behavior impressed everyone.
Έκανε μια αλτρουιστική πράξη χωρίς να περιμένει ανταμοιβή.
He performed an altruistic act without expecting a reward.
Οι αλτρουιστικοί άνθρωποι συχνά εργάζονται σε φιλανθρωπικές οργανώσεις.
Altruistic people often work in charitable organizations.
Mnemonics
- Sounds like 'altruistic' in English - both mean the same thing
- Think of 'άλλος' (other) + 'τρυώ' (to pierce) - piercing through your own needs to help others
- Remember the 'αλτ' beginning as in 'alternative to selfishness'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
The concept of altruism is valued in Greek society, particularly in the context of community support and family relationships. The term is more commonly used in academic, philosophical, or formal discussions rather than everyday conversation, where more colloquial terms for generosity might be preferred.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'αλτρουιστικός' refers specifically to selfless concern for others' wellbeing, 'φιλάνθρωπος' has a broader meaning of loving humanity and being charitable, often with connotations of organized charity work.
Confused word:
Είναι γνωστός για το φιλάνθρωπο έργο του μέσω του ιδρύματός του.
He is known for his philanthropic work through his foundation.
Notes: In modern Greek usage, 'φιλάνθρωπος' often implies organized charity or humanitarian work, while 'αλτρουιστικός' describes a personal quality or individual actions.
Mnemonic: Think of 'αλτρουιστικός' as focused on individual selfless acts, while 'φιλάνθρωπος' (phil + anthropos = love + human) is about loving humanity more broadly.
Explanation: 'Αλτρουιστικός' and 'ανιδιοτελής' are very close in meaning, but 'ανιδιοτελής' emphasizes the absence of self-interest (literally 'without self-purpose'), while 'αλτρουιστικός' emphasizes the positive concern for others.
Confused word:
Προσέφερε ανιδιοτελή βοήθεια χωρίς να ζητήσει αναγνώριση.
He offered disinterested help without asking for recognition.
Notes: These terms are often used interchangeably in everyday speech, but have subtle differences in emphasis.
Mnemonic: 'Αλτρουιστικός' focuses on the positive (helping others), while 'ανιδιοτελής' focuses on the negative (not helping yourself).