Inklingo

How to Say "self-interest" in Spanish

English → Spanish

interés

nounB2general
Use 'interés' when referring to personal advantage, motivation, or a stake in something, especially when it implies a lack of consideration for others.

Examples

Actuó únicamente por su propio interés, sin pensar en los demás.

He acted solely out of self-interest, without thinking of others.

conveniencia

/con-ve-nyen-sya//kombeˈnjensja/

nounB2general
Use 'conveniencia' when the self-interest is based on practical advantage or expediency, often implying a temporary or opportunistic arrangement.
A person at a table reaching for the largest slice of a chocolate cake while others have smaller pieces.

Examples

Ellos son amigos solo por conveniencia.

They are friends only for self-interest.

Fue un matrimonio de conveniencia.

It was a marriage of convenience.

A veces la gente actúa por pura conveniencia personal.

Sometimes people act out of pure personal advantage.

Using 'de' for Purpose

When you want to say why something exists (like a type of marriage), use 'de' + conveniencia.

Negative Nuance

In this context, the word often carries a slightly negative feeling, implying the person is being a bit selfish or cold.

Interest vs. Convenience

Mistake: “Saying 'por mi interés' when you mean it's convenient for you.”

Correction: Use 'por mi conveniencia' when it makes your life easier, and 'por mi propio interés' when you gain a specific selfish advantage.

Choosing Between 'Interés' and 'Conveniencia'

Learners often confuse 'interés' and 'conveniencia' because both relate to personal benefit. Remember that 'interés' focuses more on intrinsic motivation or advantage, while 'conveniencia' highlights a more pragmatic or opportunistic benefit, often in relationships or situations.

Related Translations

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