unselfish decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unselfish decision" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a choice made with consideration for others' needs or well-being rather than one's own interests. Example: "Her unselfish decision to donate her savings to the local shelter made a significant impact on the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It is a selfish, unselfish decision.

Independent

But with hindsight, most historians now venerate Truman for making a brave, unselfish decision that preserved civilian control of the American military.

The New York Times

Producers Larry Gordon, Lloyd Levin, Millennium and Lionsgate released a statement following Skrein's announcement, saying that they "fully support his unselfish decision," according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

It must be rebuilt by hard, unselfish decisions, taken for the common good, instead of the vested interests of a myopic elite.

Independent

Those were good unselfish decisions by CP3.

Huffington Post

In a series of behavioural experiments that often involved making decisions about whether or not to share money, neuroscientists examined which areas of the brain activate when "prosocial" (unselfish) decisions are made, as opposed to when selfish decisions are made.

Vice

If you want to have the baby, but you feel that your baby would be better off in another home with another set of parents, then giving your baby up for adoption can be one of the most loving and unselfish decisions that you will ever make.

WikiHow

"Gareth's honesty and reasoning behind his decision were unselfish, it would have been easy for him to play the Wales internationals for his personal gain but he didn't want to take an opportunity off somebody else in our squad.

BBC

Unselfish inwardness.

The New York Times - Books

She's so unselfish.

The New York Times - Sports

The players are unselfish.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person's character, use "unselfish decision" to highlight their capacity for empathy and prioritizing the needs of others. It strengthens the portrayal of their moral character.

Common error

Avoid using "unselfish decision" to subtly praise your own choices. Instead, focus on the positive impact of the decision on others without explicitly labeling it as unselfish.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unselfish decision" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where "unselfish" modifies the noun "decision". According to Ludwig, it describes a choice made with consideration for others.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unselfish decision" describes a choice made by prioritizing others' needs over one's own. While grammatically correct and generally positive, its usage is relatively rare. Ludwig AI indicates that it often appears in News & Media contexts. Alternatives like "selfless choice" or "altruistic decision" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When employing this phrase, avoid self-congratulatory tones and focus on the impact of the decision on others. In sum, "unselfish decision" serves to underscore the moral dimension of a choice, highlighting empathy and consideration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

selfless choice

This alternative focuses on the absence of self-interest in the decision.

altruistic decision

This term emphasizes the benevolent motivation behind the decision.

generous decision

This highlights the act of giving or sacrificing for others through the decision.

considerate decision

This emphasizes the thoughtfulness and concern for others involved in making the decision.

self-sacrificing choice

This focuses on the personal cost or sacrifice made in the decision.

benevolent choice

This highlights the kind and well-meaning nature of the decision.

magnanimous decision

This suggests a noble and forgiving quality in the decision.

charitable decision

This emphasizes the act of giving aid or support to others.

disinterested choice

This highlights impartiality and lack of bias.

noble decision

This focuses on the moral high ground and ethical considerations of the decision.

FAQs

How can I use "unselfish decision" in a sentence?

You can use "unselfish decision" to describe a choice made with consideration for others' well-being, such as, "Her "unselfish decision" to donate her bonus to charity inspired her colleagues."

What are some alternatives to "unselfish decision"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "selfless choice", "altruistic decision", or "generous decision".

What makes a decision "unselfish"?

A decision is considered "unselfish" when it prioritizes the needs and well-being of others over one's own personal gain or interests.

Is "unselfish decision" always a good thing?

While generally positive, an "unselfish decision" can sometimes have unintended negative consequences if not carefully considered. It's important to weigh all factors before making a decision, even with good intentions.