serving the public interest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serving the public interest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where actions, policies, or decisions are aimed at benefiting the general public or society as a whole. Example: "The new regulations are designed with the goal of serving the public interest and ensuring consumer protection."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

But far too often, the job falls into the hands of ambitious up-and-comers who seem more interested in grabbing a headline and promoting themselves than in serving the public interest.

Huffington Post

If they were serving the public interest, they would be moving to renewable energy.

The Guardian

But stories serving the public interest aren't found in the "unpopular" press alone.

The Guardian

The majority of Britain's journalists do a fantastic job in holding the powerful to account and serving the public interest.

Independent

LIU JIANFENG began his career as an investigative reporter with noble ideals about serving the public interest.

The Economist

At the heart of our constitution, Labour is committed: "to work for a dynamic economy, serving the public interest".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Second-class mail receives preferential rates because the dissemination of information through newspapers and other publications is considered to serve the public interest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

None of this serves the public interest.

The New York Times - Magazine

"We wanted to serve the public interest".

The New York Times

We ombudsmen exist to serve the public interest.

The Guardian

Getting away from commodified news, to serve the public interest.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "serving the public interest" to underscore the importance of transparency and accountability in government and corporate actions.

Common error

Don't assume that every action automatically equates to "serving the public interest". Be specific about how an action or policy directly benefits the public to avoid accusations of self-serving motives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serving the public interest" primarily functions as a modifier or descriptor, characterizing actions, policies, or motivations that aim to benefit society. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where it describes ethical responsibilities and societal contributions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

17%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "serving the public interest" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe actions or policies intended to benefit society. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and highlights its frequent use in contexts related to ethics, governance, and social responsibility. It is most commonly found in news media and formal business settings, emphasizing transparency and accountability. While the phrase is generally neutral, it's important to avoid vague claims and ensure that actions genuinely benefit the public to avoid accusations of self-serving motives. Alternatives include "promoting the common good" and "advancing public welfare". Overall, understanding the nuanced usage of "serving the public interest" enhances clarity and precision in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acting in the public good

This alternative uses 'good' instead of 'interest', focusing on the beneficial outcome for the population.

promoting the common welfare

This phrase shifts the focus to welfare, emphasizing the well-being of the community.

advancing societal benefit

This alternative highlights the progression towards a better society through actions taken.

working for the good of society

This alternative phrase is more direct, using simpler language to convey the same core concept.

upholding the public trust

This phrase places emphasis on maintaining the confidence and reliance the public has in institutions or individuals.

furthering the interests of the community

This phrase specifies the 'community' as the beneficiary, making it slightly more localized than the broader 'public'.

protecting the interests of citizens

This alternative emphasizes the protection aspect, focusing on safeguarding the rights and advantages of citizens.

championing the cause of the people

This phrase is more evocative and suggests active advocacy and support for the general populace.

acting for the benefit of all

This is a simplified version, emphasizing inclusivity and universal advantage.

prioritizing the needs of the nation

This phrase emphasizes the nation-state as the primary beneficiary, suggesting a focus on national interests.

FAQs

How can I use "serving the public interest" in a sentence?

You can use "serving the public interest" to describe actions or policies that benefit the community or society as a whole. For example: "The new regulations are aimed at "serving the public interest" by ensuring fair competition".

What is a similar phrase to "serving the public interest"?

Alternatives to "serving the public interest" include phrases like "promoting the common good", "advancing public welfare", or "acting in the public good".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "serving the public interest"?

Use "serving the public interest" when describing actions, policies, or decisions that are intended to benefit the general population, ensure fairness, and contribute to the overall well-being of society. It is particularly relevant in discussions of ethics, governance, and social responsibility.

What's the difference between "serving the public interest" and "pursuing private interests"?

"Serving the public interest" refers to actions aimed at benefiting society as a whole, while "pursuing private interests" describes actions taken to benefit oneself or a specific group, often at the expense of the broader community. They represent contrasting motivations and outcomes.