Inklingo

How to Say "selfish" in Spanish

English → Spanish

egoísta

adjectiveA2general
Use 'egoísta' to describe someone who primarily thinks about themselves and their own needs, often to the detriment of others, or to describe an action motivated by this trait.

Examples

Mi hermano es muy egoísta y nunca comparte sus juguetes.

My brother is very selfish and never shares his toys.

interesado

een-teh-reh-SAH-doh/in.te.reˈsa.ðo/

adjectiveB1general
Use 'interesado' when someone's actions are motivated by personal gain or benefit, implying they are not acting out of genuine kindness or friendship.
A cartoonish figure hugging a massive, overflowing sack of gold coins, looking greedy and protective, symbolizing motivation by personal gain.

Examples

Ella no te ayuda por amistad, es solo una persona muy interesada.

She doesn't help you out of friendship, she's just a very self-interested person.

El abogado solo aceptó el caso porque era muy interesado en el dinero.

The lawyer only took the case because he was very motivated by the money (greedy).

The Tone Shift

Unlike the first meaning ('curious'), this meaning describes a negative character trait. When used alone to describe a person, 'interesado' almost always implies they are only looking out for themselves.

Egoísta vs. Interesado

Learners often confuse 'egoísta' and 'interesado'. Remember that 'egoísta' refers to a general lack of consideration for others, while 'interesado' specifically implies that someone is acting only to benefit themselves, often with a hidden motive.

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