based on mutual self-interest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "based on mutual self-interest" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing agreements, partnerships, or relationships that are formed with the understanding that all parties involved will benefit from the arrangement. Example: "The two companies entered into a partnership based on mutual self-interest, aiming to enhance their market reach and profitability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The alliance between Trump and congressional Republicans is sometimes an uneasy one, but it's based on mutual self-interest.

The New Yorker

Contractarianism has its roots in Hobbes, whose account is based on mutual self-interest.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Ultimately, the functionality of Swedish housing is based on mutual self interest – renting or living in a communally owned house is popular.

The Guardian

All the signs suggest the two men will quickly develop what the Germans call a Männerfreundschaft – close, blokey relations similar to that enjoyed by Putin with Gerhard Schröder and Silvio Berlusconi, sealed over a few lewd jokes, possibly with allusions to grabbing, and based not on principles but on mutual self-interest.

The Guardian

In Cairo, the president called for "a new beginning between the United States and Muslims around the world, one based on mutual interest and mutual respect".

The Guardian - Opinion

Even so, Mr. Obama said "the diplomatic path must be tested," gave Mr. Kerry that task and held out the hope that a nuclear deal would be a major step toward "a different relationship — one based on mutual interests and mutual respect".

The New York Times

Resolving this issue, obviously, could also serve as a major step forward in a new relationship between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, one based on mutual interest and mutual respect.

The New York Times

But I do believe that if we can resolve the issue of Iran's nuclear program, that can serve as a major step down a long road towards a different relationship – one based on mutual interests and mutual respect.

The New York Times

"Resolving this issue could serve as a major step forward in a new relationship between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran, one based on mutual interest and mutual respect," he said.

Huffington Post

The app matches users based on mutual Facebook interests, and paired users can agree to chat.

The New York Times

Strike up a conversation based on mutual career interests.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing international relations or political alliances, use "based on mutual self-interest" to indicate pragmatic, rather than idealistic, motivations.

Common error

While accurate, "based on mutual self-interest" can sound cynical. Use it judiciously and consider alternatives like "based on shared goals" if a more positive tone is desired.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "based on mutual self-interest" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun, adjective, or verb. It describes the underlying motivation or foundation for a relationship, agreement, or action, indicating that it is rooted in the self-interest of all parties involved. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "based on mutual self-interest" is a prepositional phrase used to describe a relationship, agreement, or action motivated by the individual benefits each party receives. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct. While grammatically sound and widely used, it is essential to be aware of the potential cynicism it may convey. Alternative phrases like "founded on reciprocal advantage" or "grounded in common benefit" can provide a more positive spin. The phrase appears most commonly in news and media sources, reflecting its role in objective analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

founded on reciprocal advantage

This alternative emphasizes the give-and-take nature of the relationship, highlighting that each party gains something.

predicated on shared incentives

This alternative focuses on the motivating factors that drive the relationship, suggesting that both parties are motivated by similar goals.

grounded in common benefit

This option stresses the advantageous outcome that both parties experience as a result of the relationship.

driven by shared goals

This alternative highlights that the relationship has common purposes.

motivated by reciprocal gain

This alternative uses the word 'gain' to emphasize what each party achieves.

forged on mutually beneficial terms

This implies a deliberate agreement where the benefits are clear and balanced for all involved parties.

built upon a foundation of shared advantage

This alternative highlights that the relationship rests on advantages for the parties involved.

stemming from joint objectives

This alternative highlights the shared targets to the relationship.

centered around common interests

This alternative centers the focus on the shared interests rather than the benefit.

underpinned by collective incentives

This highlights that the relationship has motivations that are felt collectively.

FAQs

How can I use "based on mutual self-interest" in a sentence?

You can use "based on mutual self-interest" to describe relationships or agreements where each party benefits. For example: "The alliance was "based on mutual self-interest", as both nations stood to gain economically and strategically."

What's a less cynical alternative to "based on mutual self-interest"?

If you want to avoid sounding overly cynical, you can use phrases like "founded on reciprocal advantage" or "grounded in common benefit" which have a similar meaning but are less direct.

Is it always negative to say something is "based on mutual self-interest"?

Not necessarily. While it can imply a lack of altruism, it can also convey a realistic understanding of how relationships and agreements function. Whether it's negative depends on the context and what you're trying to emphasize.

What is the difference between "based on mutual interest" and "based on mutual self-interest"?

"Based on mutual interest" is a broader term suggesting shared interests, while "based on mutual self-interest" specifically highlights that each party is acting in their own self-interest, which happens to align. The latter is more specific and can imply a more transactional relationship.