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selbstsüchtig

selfish

adjective ZELPST-zuekh-tikh Rare
Descriptions & Qualities Quality

Origin: from Selbst (self) + -süchtig (addicted to)

Also means

egotistical

Usage Note

selbstsüchtig describes self-centred behaviour, close to egoistisch but with a more literary, moralising tone. The -süchtig suffix frames it almost as an addiction to one's own interests. The opposite is selbstlos.

Examples

"Seine selbstsüchtigen Motive wurden bald deutlich."

Natural Translation

His selfish motives soon became clear.

Literal Translation

His selfish motives became soon clear.

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