स्वार्थिन्
svārthin/sʋɑːɾ.tʰin/
The Sanskrit word for "selfish" is स्वार्थिन् (svārthin).
The term स्वार्थिन् describes a person who prioritizes their own well-being above that of others.
Meaning: having regard for one's own well-being above that of others (adj)
Which one should you use?
Another formal term for selfishness is ahamkari, used to describe someone who focuses excessively on their own ego and self-importance. ahamkari becomes ahamkarini for a female who is selfish.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /sʋɑːɾ.tʰin/. It has 2 syllables.
Did you know?
- The related term ahamkara describes the 'I-maker', which is the mental faculty that actually constructs the sense of a separate self.
- In classical Sanskrit literature, selfishness is rarely discussed as a simple lack of generosity. Instead, it is often categorized as moha, a state of 'delusion' where a person forgets the interconnectedness of all beings.
- The term स्वार्थ can be used positively to describe the act of fulfilling one's own 'dharma' or duty. In this context, looking after one's own interests is not 'selfish' but is seen as a necessary part of a balanced life.
Example sentences for Sanskrit are not verified yet.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a third person's behavior.
- ईशा Ishaआर्यन, सः केवलं स्वकीयम् इच्छति।Āryan, saḥ kevalaṃ svakīyam icchati.Aryan, he only wants what is his own.
- आर्यन Aryanआम्, सः अति स्वार्थिन् अस्ति।ām, saḥ ati svārthin asti.Yes, he is very selfish.
- ईशा Ishaतस्य व्यवहारः मम मनः दुःखयति।tasya vyavahāraḥ mama manaḥ duḥkhayati.His behavior makes me sad.
- आर्यन Aryanअतः तस्य सह मा गच्छ।ataḥ tasya saha mā gaccha.Therefore, do not go with him.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “selfish” translations and entries स्वार्थिन्, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
