Esta página no seu idioma

English

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

中文

हिन्दी

B1 adjective #7,000 mais comum 12 min de leitura

altruista

Top 7,000

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas altruista em 30 segundos

Explicação altruista in your Level:

The word 'altruista' is a special word for a person who likes to help others. Imagine a person who gives their food to a hungry friend and doesn't want anything back. That person is 'altruista'. In English, we say 'altruistic' or 'selfless'. Even though it ends in '-a', it is the same for men and women. For example, 'Él es altruista' (He is altruistic) and 'Ella es altruista' (She is altruistic). It is a very good thing to be! You use this word when someone does something very kind because they care about people, not because they want money or prizes. At this level, you can think of it as a 'super-word' for 'bueno' (good) or 'generoso' (generous). When you see a person helping an old lady cross the street or giving toys to children, you can say '¡Qué altruista!'. It is a big word, but very useful to describe heroes and good friends. Remember, don't say 'altruisto' for a boy! It's always 'altruista'. If there are many people, you say 'altruistas'. For example, 'Mis amigos son altruistas'. Practice saying it: al-truis-ta. The 'u' and 'i' go together quickly. It's a beautiful word for beautiful people. You might hear it on the news when they talk about people helping after a big storm. It's a word that makes people feel happy because it's about kindness.

Cadastre-se grátis para ler a explicação completa

At the A2 level, you can start using 'altruista' to describe people's character more deeply. While 'generoso' means giving things, 'altruista' means giving without expecting any reward. It is an adjective that describes a personality trait. In Spanish, adjectives usually change for boys and girls, but 'altruista' is an exception. It belongs to a group of adjectives ending in '-ista' that stay the same regardless of gender. This makes it easier to use! You just need to remember to add an 's' if you are talking about more than one person. For example, 'Los voluntarios son muy altruistas'. You will often find this word in stories or news reports about people who do charity work. If you are describing your 'héroe' or 'persona favorita', this is a great word to use. It shows you have a more advanced vocabulary than just using 'bueno'. You can use it with the verb 'ser' because being altruistic is part of who a person is. 'Mi madre siempre ha sido una persona altruista'. It is also used to describe actions: 'un gesto altruista' (an altruistic gesture). When you use it, you are emphasizing that the person is doing something for the good of others, not for themselves. It's a high-level compliment in Spanish culture, where helping the community is very important.

Cadastre-se grátis para ler a explicação completa

As a B1 learner, you should understand that 'altruista' is a more formal and precise term than 'generoso'. It specifically targets the motivation behind an action. When someone acts in an 'altruista' manner, they are motivated by the welfare of others, often at their own expense. This word is essential for discussing social issues, volunteering, and ethics. Grammatically, remember it's an invariant adjective for gender. A common B1-level mistake is trying to match it to a masculine noun with an '-o' ending. Avoid this! It's 'un hombre altruista' and 'una mujer altruista'. You will frequently see it paired with nouns like 'labor', 'fin', 'objetivo', or 'naturaleza'. For example, 'una organización con fines altruistas' (an organization with altruistic goals). At this level, you should also be aware of the noun form, 'el altruismo'. You might encounter 'altruista' in more abstract sentences, like 'El comportamiento altruista es fundamental para la convivencia'. It is a key word in professional and academic environments. If you are writing a cover letter or a biography, using 'altruista' demonstrates a sophisticated grasp of character description. It conveys a sense of moral integrity. You should also start to distinguish it from 'solidario', which implies community support, whereas 'altruista' is more about the individual's selfless nature. Understanding this nuance will help you sound more like a native speaker.

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 'altruista' in a variety of complex contexts, including debates about human nature or social policy. The word often appears in discussions about 'el tercer sector' (the non-profit sector) or 'la responsabilidad social' (social responsibility). You should know that 'altruista' can function as both an adjective and, occasionally, as a noun to refer to a person ('un altruista'), though 'una persona altruista' is more common. In terms of syntax, you might see it placed before the noun for rhetorical effect, especially in literary or formal contexts: 'Su altruista dedicación a la causa conmovió a todos'. This placement highlights the quality as the most important aspect of the dedication. You should also be able to use it with intensifiers like 'sumamente', 'enteramente', or 'puramente'. For instance, 'Fue un acto puramente altruista'. At this level, you can compare 'altruismo' with 'filantropía'. While they are similar, philanthropy often implies a structural or financial contribution, whereas altruism is the underlying psychological impulse. You might also encounter the word in scientific contexts, such as 'altruismo recíproco' in biology, describing animals that help each other for the eventual benefit of the group. Being able to discuss these nuances shows a high level of linguistic and cultural competence. It's a word that carries a strong positive connotation and is often used to inspire or praise.

Cadastre-se grátis para ler a explicação completa

For C1 learners, 'altruista' is a tool for nuanced psychological and philosophical expression. You should be able to navigate the subtle differences between 'altruista', 'abnegado', and 'desinteresado'. While 'altruista' is the standard term for selflessness, 'abnegado' adds a layer of self-sacrifice and 'desinteresado' emphasizes the lack of ulterior motives. In sophisticated discourse, you might use 'altruista' to critique or defend certain social behaviors. For example, '¿Es el voluntariado siempre un acto altruista, o existe un componente de gratificación personal?' (Is volunteering always an altruistic act, or is there a component of personal gratification?). You should recognize the word in high-level literature, legal documents (like those regarding organ or blood donation), and academic papers. The word 'altruista' is often used in the context of 'ética' and 'moralidad'. You should also be aware of its derivatives and how they fit into the broader word family, including 'altruistamente' (altruistically), although this adverb is less common than the phrase 'de manera altruista'. At this level, your use of the word should reflect an understanding of its historical and philosophical weight, dating back to Comte's definition. You can use it to describe not just individuals, but also policies, philosophies, and systemic approaches to social welfare. It is a word that denotes a high degree of empathy and social conscience, and using it correctly in complex sentence structures will demonstrate your mastery of Spanish register and tone.

Cadastre-se grátis para ler a explicação completa

At the C2 level, 'altruista' is part of a rich tapestry of vocabulary used to describe the complexities of human motivation and social dynamics. You should be able to use it with absolute precision, perhaps even exploring its limitations in philosophical debates. For instance, you might discuss the 'paradoja del altruista' (the altruist's paradox) in evolutionary biology or game theory. Your command of the word should extend to its most formal applications, such as in panegyrics, formal citations for awards, or deep sociological analyses. You should be able to use the word in complex rhetorical structures, like 'Si bien sus métodos fueron cuestionables, sus motivos eran indiscutiblemente altruistas'. Notice how the word remains invariant in gender even in such sophisticated settings. You should also be familiar with how the concept of 'altruismo' interacts with other high-level concepts like 'empatía proactiva' or 'cooperación sistémica'. In writing, you might use 'altruista' to create a specific atmosphere or to draw a sharp contrast with 'egoísmo' or 'hedonismo'. The word serves as a cornerstone for discussing the 'bien común' (common good). At this level, you are not just using the word; you are wielding it to express deep insights into character and society. You should also be comfortable recognizing it in various dialects and registers across the Spanish-speaking world, noting that while the word itself is standard, the cultural weight of 'altruismo' can vary between a more individualistic versus a more collectivist society. Your mastery is shown by the effortless and accurate integration of this word into any conversation, no matter how abstract or specialized.

Cadastre-se grátis para ler a explicação completa

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

altruista em 30 segundos

Altruista is a gender-neutral Spanish adjective meaning selfless or altruistic, used to describe people who help others without expecting a reward.
It is more formal than 'generoso' and specifically emphasizes the lack of self-interest in an action or a person's character.
The word is invariable for gender, meaning you use 'altruista' for both men and women, only adding an 's' for plural forms.
Commonly found in news, charity contexts, and philosophical discussions, it represents one of the highest moral virtues in Spanish-speaking cultures.

The Spanish adjective altruista is a sophisticated term used to describe individuals or actions characterized by a selfless concern for the well-being of others. It originates from the philosophical concept of altruism, which posits that the moral value of an individual's actions depends solely on their positive impact on other individuals, regardless of the consequences for the actor themselves. In Spanish, this word carries a heavy weight of moral admiration and is often used in contexts involving charity, social work, or extraordinary acts of kindness where the person acting does not expect anything in return.

Philosophical Root: The term was coined by the French philosopher Auguste Comte as an antonym to egoism. In Spanish, it retains this deep academic and moral flavor, suggesting a conscious choice to put others first.

When you use altruista, you are not just saying someone is 'nice' (simpático) or 'good' (bueno). You are specifically highlighting the absence of self-interest. It is a word frequently found in biographies of saints, descriptions of philanthropists, and reports on non-governmental organizations. Interestingly, while the noun is el altruismo, the adjective altruista is what we call an 'epicene' or 'gender-invariant' adjective because it ends in '-ista'. This means it does not change its form whether you are describing a man, a woman, or a non-binary person.

Decidió dedicar su vida entera a un proyecto altruista en las zonas más pobres del país.

In everyday Spanish conversation, the word might feel a bit formal. If you are describing a friend who simply shared their lunch, you might use 'generoso' or 'bueno'. However, if that friend spends every weekend volunteering at a soup kitchen without telling anyone, altruista becomes the perfect descriptor. It implies a lifestyle or a significant moral stance. It is also used in biological and sociological discussions to describe behaviors in animals or groups that benefit the collective at the expense of the individual.

Social Context: In Spanish-speaking cultures, where community and family ties are often strong, being altruista is seen as one of the highest virtues a person can possess.

Su donación fue un gesto puramente altruista, ya que pidió permanecer en el anonimato.

Understanding the nuances of altruista helps you navigate formal Spanish literature and news. For instance, when a politician claims their motives are altruistas, the public often debates if they are truly selfless or merely seeking votes. The word evokes a sense of purity and dedication that few other adjectives can match. It is the gold standard for describing a person's character in terms of their relationship with society and the needs of others.

Grammar Note: The plural form is 'altruistas'. It follows the standard rule of adding -s to words ending in a vowel. Example: 'Ellos son personas muy altruistas'.

Las organizaciones altruistas trabajan incansablemente para erradicar el hambre.

Es difícil encontrar a alguien tan altruista en un mundo tan competitivo.

In summary, altruista is more than just 'giving'. It is a word that describes the heart of a person who finds joy in the success and health of others. Whether you are reading about a historical figure or describing a modern-day hero, this adjective provides the precision needed to convey deep, selfless virtue in the Spanish language.

Using the word altruista correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical behavior as an adjective. In Spanish, adjectives typically follow the noun they modify, and altruista is no exception. However, because it is an adjective of 'intrinsic quality' or 'moral character', it can sometimes precede the noun for stylistic or poetic emphasis, though this is less common in everyday speech.

Agreement Rules: As mentioned, 'altruista' is invariable for gender. This simplifies things for learners! You use the same form for 'el hombre' and 'la mujer'. The only change is for number (singular vs. plural).

Let's look at how it fits into different sentence structures. In a basic 'Subject + Verb + Adjective' structure, it often follows the verb ser because altruism is considered a permanent trait of character rather than a temporary state (which would use estar). You would say 'Ella es altruista', not 'Ella está altruista'.

Su abuelo siempre fue un hombre altruista que ayudaba a todos los vecinos.

When modifying nouns, altruista often pairs with words like gesto (gesture), labor (work/task), fin (purpose), or causa (cause). For example, 'una causa altruista' refers to a cause that seeks the benefit of others without profit. It is very common in the phrase 'sin fines de lucro' (non-profit), where altruista might be used to describe the nature of the organization.

Positioning: Standard: 'Una persona altruista'. Emphatic: 'Su altruista labor' (His altruistic work). The latter is mostly found in literature or formal speeches.

No podemos ignorar la altruista contribución de los voluntarios durante la crisis.

You can also use adverbs to modify the intensity of the adjective. Words like sumamente (extremely), profundamente (deeply), or verdaderamente (truly) work very well with altruista. For instance, 'Él es verdaderamente altruista' emphasizes the sincerity of the person's selflessness.

Comparisons: You can compare people using 'más... que' or 'tan... como'. Example: 'María es más altruista que su hermano'.

Es la persona más altruista que he conocido en toda mi vida.

Realizaron un esfuerzo altruista para salvar el parque local de la demolición.

In professional writing, you might encounter the word in administrative or legal contexts. For example, a 'donación altruista de órganos' (altruistic organ donation) is a standard medical term. Here, the word provides a necessary distinction from commercial or coerced transactions, highlighting the voluntary and selfless nature of the act.

The word altruista resonates through several specific domains of Spanish-speaking life. While you might not hear it shouted in a crowded market, you will certainly encounter it in more reflective or formal settings. Understanding these contexts will help you recognize when it is appropriate to use it yourself.

News and Media: Journalists often use this word to describe the heroes of a story—people who rescued others during a natural disaster or who funded a new school anonymously. It adds a layer of dignity to the report.

In the world of Non-Governmental Organizations (ONGs) and non-profits, altruista is a buzzword. It appears in mission statements, recruitment ads for volunteers, and fundraising campaigns. For example, an organization might describe its mission as 'fomentar valores altruistas en la juventud' (to foster altruistic values in youth). If you listen to Spanish podcasts about social issues or ethics, you will hear speakers debating the nature of human altruism versus our survival instincts.

El presentador elogió la conducta altruista del bombero retirado.

Academic and philosophical discussions are another primary habitat for this word. In university lectures on sociology, psychology, or philosophy, students analyze 'el comportamiento altruista' (altruistic behavior). They might discuss whether true altruism exists or if every action has some hidden selfish benefit. This is where the word transitions from a simple adjective to a complex conceptual tool.

Literature and Biographies: When reading biographies of figures like Rigoberta Menchú or Bartolomé de las Casas, the word 'altruista' is often used to characterize their lifelong commitment to justice and others' well-being.

La novela explora la lucha entre el deseo personal y el deber altruista.

You will also hear it in political speeches, especially when a leader is trying to rally people toward a common good. They might ask for an 'esfuerzo altruista' from the citizens to help the country overcome a crisis. In this context, the word is used to evoke a sense of national unity and shared sacrifice. Finally, in religious settings, particularly in Catholic homilies across Latin America and Spain, the concept of being altruista is frequently linked to the Christian concept of 'caridad' (charity), though 'altruista' remains the more secular, universal term.

Common Collocations: 'Corazón altruista', 'fines altruistas', 'naturaleza altruista'. These combinations are very frequent in formal Spanish.

Su espíritu altruista lo llevó a fundar tres bibliotecas gratuitas.

¿Crees que el ser humano es altruista por naturaleza o por educación?

Even for intermediate students, the word altruista can present a few linguistic traps. Avoiding these common errors will make your Spanish sound much more natural and precise.

The 'Gender' Trap: The most frequent mistake is attempting to change the ending to '-o' when describing a man. Spanish has many adjectives ending in '-ista' (like optimista, pesimista, realista), and they are ALL gender-neutral. Never say 'Él es altruisto'.

Another mistake involves confusing altruista with generoso. While they are related, they are not identical. Generoso (generous) usually refers to giving more of something than is expected (like money or time). Altruista refers to the *motivation* behind the giving—doing it solely for the other person's benefit. You can be generous because you want people to like you, but you are altruistic only if you don't care about the reward.

Incorrecto: Juan es muy altruisto. Correcto: Juan es muy altruista.

Students often struggle with the spelling as well. Remember that in Spanish, there is no 'h' in this word, unlike some other words that might sound similar in other languages. Also, ensure you don't confuse it with artista (artist). While they share the same suffix, their meanings are entirely different, though one can certainly be an 'artista altruista'.

Overuse in Informal Contexts: Using 'altruista' to describe someone who just lent you a pencil can sound sarcastic or overly dramatic. Save it for significant acts of selflessness to maintain its impact.

Confusión: 'Es una persona solidaria' vs 'Es una persona altruista'. 'Solidaria' implies standing together in a cause; 'altruista' implies a personal trait of self-sacrifice.

Finally, be careful with the pluralization of the noun 'altruismo' versus the adjective 'altruistas'. You can have many 'actos altruistas' (adjective), but you generally talk about 'el altruismo' (noun) as an abstract concept in the singular. Using 'los altruismos' is very rare and usually incorrect in standard Spanish.

Agreement with Plural Groups: When referring to a group of men and women, use 'altruistas'. Example: 'Los voluntarios y las voluntarias son altruistas'. The adjective doesn't change gender, only number.

Error común: Las metas altruistos. Corrección: Las metas altruistas.

No confundas altruista con 'atruista'. La 'l' es esencial para la raíz 'alter' (otro).

To truly master the concept of altruista, it is helpful to compare it with its synonyms and related terms. Each of these words has a slightly different 'flavor' or register, and knowing when to choose one over the other will enhance your Spanish fluency.

Filántropo vs. Altruista: A 'filántropo' (philanthropist) is almost always someone with significant financial resources who gives large amounts of money to charity. An 'altruista' can be anyone, regardless of wealth, who acts for the benefit of others. Altruism is the character trait; philanthropy is often the large-scale practice of it.

Another close relative is desinteresado. This literally means 'without interest' (in the sense of self-gain). While altruista is more philosophical and positive, desinteresado is a very common way to describe an action that was done without seeking a reward. For example, 'Me dio un consejo desinteresado' (He gave me some selfless advice).

Su ayuda fue totalmente desinteresada, no quería nada a cambio.

The word solidario is perhaps the most common 'everyday' alternative in Spain and Latin America. It suggests a sense of solidarity—standing with others in their time of need. While an altruista person might act alone, a solidaria person is often part of a collective effort. 'Ser solidario' is a very high value in Hispanic cultures, often used during strikes, protests, or community crises.

Generoso vs. Altruista: Generosity is about the quantity of the gift; altruism is about the motive. You can be a 'generoso' host by providing lots of food, but you are 'altruista' if you give your own food to someone who has none while you go hungry.

Buscamos a personas solidarias para ayudar en el comedor social.

In a more formal or religious context, you might see abnegado. This word implies a high degree of self-sacrifice, often to the point of giving up one's own comfort or desires. It is frequently used to describe mothers ('una madre abnegada') or dedicated professionals like doctors and nurses. It is a 'stronger' version of altruista that emphasizes the 'giving up' part of the action.

Benévolo: This word means 'well-wishing' or kind-hearted. It is more about the internal attitude of wanting good for others than the actual act of self-sacrifice.

El director tuvo un gesto benévolo al perdonar la deuda del empleado.

Su comportamiento abnegado durante la guerra salvó muchas vidas.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

Auguste Comte created this word specifically to have an opposite for 'egoism'. Before this word existed, people often used religious terms like 'charity' to describe this behavior.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /æl.truˈiː.stə/

US /al.tɾuˈis.ta/

The stress falls on the penultimate syllable: al-tru-IS-ta.

Rima com

artista optimista realista turista dentista ciclista pianista revista

Erros comuns

Pronouncing 'u' and 'i' as two separate syllables like 'al-tru-i-sta'.
Using a heavy English 'r' sound instead of the Spanish tap.
Aspirating the 't' sound (it should be soft, like in 'stay').
Putting the stress on the last syllable 'ta'.
Adding an 'h' sound before the 'u'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 3/5

Easy to recognize due to the English cognate 'altruistic'.

Escrita 4/5

Requires remembering the gender-invariant '-ista' ending.

Expressão oral 4/5

The diphthong 'ui' can be tricky for English speakers.

Audição 3/5

Clear pronunciation usually makes it easy to catch in speech.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

bueno ayudar gente dar persona

Aprenda a seguir

filantropía abnegación desinteresado solidaridad beneficencia

Avançado

concupiscencia (as an opposite concept) alteridad praxis ética nicomáquea empatía

Gramática essencial

Adjectives ending in -ista are gender-invariant.

El taxista altruista / La taxista altruista.

Placement of adjectives after the noun for standard description.

Una acción altruista.

Placement of adjectives before the noun for poetic or emphatic effect.

Su altruista labor.

Pluralization of adjectives ending in a vowel by adding -s.

Personas altruistas.

Use of 'ser' for permanent character traits.

Él es altruista.

Cadastre-se grátis para ler a explicação completa

Exemplos por nível

Mi amigo es muy altruista.

My friend is very altruistic.

Notice that 'altruista' stays the same for a male friend.

Ella hace trabajo altruista.

She does altruistic work.

'Trabajo' is masculine, but 'altruista' doesn't change.

Somos personas altruistas.

We are altruistic people.

Add '-s' for plural nouns.

Un niño altruista ayuda a otros.

An altruistic boy helps others.

Adjective follows the noun 'niño'.

Es un gesto muy altruista.

It is a very altruistic gesture.

'Gesto' is a common noun paired with this adjective.

Mi madre es altruista y buena.

My mother is altruistic and good.

Using two adjectives to describe character.

Ellos son altruistas.

They are altruistic.

Plural form for 'ellos'.

¿Eres una persona altruista?

Are you an altruistic person?

Question structure with 'ser'.

El voluntario tiene un corazón altruista.

The volunteer has an altruistic heart.

Metaphorical use of 'corazón' with the adjective.

Donar sangre es un acto altruista.

Donating blood is an altruistic act.

'Acto' is the noun being modified.

Mi abuela siempre fue muy altruista con los vecinos.

My grandmother was always very altruistic with the neighbors.

Use of 'ser' in the past tense (pretérito indefinido).

Buscamos jóvenes altruistas para el campamento.

We are looking for altruistic young people for the camp.

Plural agreement: 'jóvenes altruistas'.

No es egoísta, es altruista.

He is not selfish, he is altruistic.

Contrast between antonyms.

Su ayuda altruista salvó el refugio de animales.

Their altruistic help saved the animal shelter.

Adjective emphasizing the nature of the help.

Es importante ser altruista en la vida.

It is important to be altruistic in life.

Infinitive 'ser' used in a general statement.

Las acciones altruistas nos hacen felices.

Altruistic actions make us happy.

Plural feminine noun 'acciones'.

La organización realiza una labor altruista en África.

The organization carries out altruistic work in Africa.

'Labor' is a common formal noun for 'work'.

Muchos científicos trabajan de forma altruista por el medio ambiente.

Many scientists work altruistically for the environment.

'De forma altruista' is an adverbial phrase.

Su contribución altruista fue vital para el proyecto.

His altruistic contribution was vital for the project.

'Contribución' is feminine, adjective remains 'altruista'.

Es difícil encontrar líderes con motivos altruistas.

It's hard to find leaders with altruistic motives.

'Motivos' (motives) is the noun modified.

Ella donó toda su fortuna de manera altruista.

She donated her entire fortune altruistically.

'De manera altruista' is another way to form an adverb.

El altruismo es una cualidad muy valorada.

Altruism is a highly valued quality.

Noun form: 'el altruismo'.

Participar en este evento es un compromiso altruista.

Participating in this event is an altruistic commitment.

'Compromiso' means commitment or obligation.

No buscamos fama, solo un fin altruista.

We don't seek fame, only an altruistic purpose.

'Fin' here means purpose or goal.

Su altruista dedicación a la medicina es admirable.

His altruistic dedication to medicine is admirable.

Adjective before the noun for emphasis.

El reportaje destaca el carácter altruista de la comunidad.

The report highlights the altruistic character of the community.

'Carácter' refers to the personality or nature.

Existen diversas teorías sobre el origen del comportamiento altruista.

There are various theories about the origin of altruistic behavior.

'Comportamiento' is a common academic term.

A pesar de las críticas, sus intenciones eran puramente altruistas.

Despite the criticism, his intentions were purely altruistic.

Use of the intensifier 'puramente'.

La donación altruista de órganos salva miles de vidas al año.

Altruistic organ donation saves thousands of lives a year.

Technical medical context.

Fomentar valores altruistas en la escuela es esencial.

Fostering altruistic values in school is essential.

'Valores' (values) is the noun.

Se considera un acto altruista porque no hay beneficio personal.

It is considered an altruistic act because there is no personal benefit.

Explanation of the word's meaning within the sentence.

Buscamos una solución altruista que beneficie a todos los ciudadanos.

We seek an altruistic solution that benefits all citizens.

Applying the adjective to an abstract concept ('solución').

La paradoja del altruista ha sido debatida por filósofos durante siglos.

The altruist's paradox has been debated by philosophers for centuries.

Using 'altruista' as a noun to refer to the person.

Su trayectoria profesional está marcada por un espíritu profundamente altruista.

His professional career is marked by a deeply altruistic spirit.

Use of the intensifier 'profundamente'.

El ensayo analiza el altruismo como base de la cohesión social.

The essay analyzes altruism as the basis of social cohesion.

Noun form in an academic context.

No debemos confundir la caridad con una verdadera actitud altruista.

We must not confuse charity with a true altruistic attitude.

Drawing a distinction between related concepts.

La política exterior del país se basa en principios altruistas y humanitarios.

The country's foreign policy is based on altruistic and humanitarian principles.

Using multiple adjectives for precision.

Resulta conmovedor ver tales muestras de desprendimiento altruista.

It is moving to see such displays of altruistic detachment.

'Desprendimiento' refers to the act of letting go of possessions.

El autor aboga por un modelo económico más altruista y menos competitivo.

The author advocates for a more altruistic and less competitive economic model.

Comparative structure with 'más' and 'menos'.

Su legado altruista perdurará en las futuras generaciones.

His altruistic legacy will endure in future generations.

'Legado' (legacy) is the noun.

La dicotomía entre el instinto de supervivencia y el impulso altruista es fascinante.

The dichotomy between the survival instinct and the altruistic impulse is fascinating.

High-level vocabulary like 'dicotomía' and 'impulso'.

Se cuestiona si el altruismo puro es posible o si siempre subyace un interés egoísta.

It is questioned whether pure altruism is possible or if a selfish interest always underlies it.

Use of 'subyacer' (to underlie).

La retórica altruista del discurso no lograba ocultar las ambiciones del orador.

The altruistic rhetoric of the speech failed to hide the speaker's ambitions.

'Retórica' refers to the style of the speech.

Su filantropía no era más que una máscara para sus fines poco altruistas.

His philanthropy was nothing more than a mask for his far from altruistic goals.

Using 'poco altruista' to mean the opposite.

El estudio pormenorizado de las conductas altruistas en primates arroja datos reveladores.

The detailed study of altruistic behaviors in primates yields revealing data.

Scientific/academic register.

A través de una praxis altruista, el colectivo logró transformar el barrio.

Through altruistic praxis, the collective managed to transform the neighborhood.

'Praxis' refers to practice or action.

Es imperativo que la sociedad civil adopte una postura más altruista ante la crisis climática.

It is imperative that civil society adopts a more altruistic stance toward the climate crisis.

Use of 'imperativo' and 'postura'.

La abnegación altruista de los misioneros fue documentada en sus diarios personales.

The altruistic self-sacrifice of the missionaries was documented in their personal diaries.

Combining 'abnegación' and 'altruista'.

Colocações comuns

gesto altruista

labor altruista

fines altruistas

donación altruista

corazón altruista

naturaleza altruista

causa altruista

espíritu altruista

comportamiento altruista

propósito altruista

Frases Comuns

por motivos altruistas

— Doing something because of selfless reasons.

Lo hizo por motivos altruistas, no por dinero.

de forma altruista

— Acting in an altruistic way.

Colabora de forma altruista con la ONG.

sin fines altruistas

— Not having altruistic goals (usually negative).

Esa empresa no tiene fines altruistas.

puro altruismo

— Something that is done strictly out of selflessness.

Ayudar a los extraños es puro altruismo.

una persona altruista

— A person who is selfless.

Es una persona altruista y muy querida.

gestos altruistas diarios

— Small acts of kindness done every day.

Pequeños gestos altruistas diarios cambian el mundo.

vocación altruista

— A natural calling to help others.

Tiene una verdadera vocación altruista.

acciones altruistas

— Things done to help others without reward.

Sus acciones altruistas son un ejemplo.

líder altruista

— A leader who cares more about the people than power.

Necesitamos un líder altruista para el país.

donante altruista

— Someone who gives something (like organs or money) selflessly.

El donante altruista prefirió el anonimato.

Frequentemente confundido com

altruista vs generoso

Generosity is about the amount given; altruism is about the selfless motive.

altruista vs solidario

Solidarity is about group support; altruism is about individual selflessness.

altruista vs artista

They sound similar due to the '-ista' ending, but an artist creates art, while an altruist helps others.

Expressões idiomáticas

"tener buen corazón"

— To have a good heart; to be a kind and altruistic person.

Juan tiene muy buen corazón, siempre ayuda a los demás.

informal

"dar la camisa por alguien"

— To give the shirt off one's back; to be extremely altruistic and helpful.

Ella daría la camisa por sus amigos.

informal

"hacer el bien sin mirar a quién"

— To do good without looking at whom it benefits; pure altruism.

Mi abuelo siempre decía: haz el bien sin mirar a quién.

neutral

"ser un trozo de pan"

— To be a 'piece of bread'; to be a very good and kind person.

Ese chico es un trozo de pan, es muy altruista.

informal

"quitarse el pan de la boca"

— To take the bread out of one's own mouth to give to another; extreme self-sacrifice.

Se quita el pan de la boca para dárselo a sus hijos.

informal

"por amor al arte"

— For the love of art; doing something for free or for the pleasure of it.

Trabaja en el museo por amor al arte.

informal

"ser un ángel"

— To be an angel; to be exceptionally kind and helpful.

Esa enfermera es un ángel, es tan altruista.

informal

"tender la mano"

— To extend a hand; to offer help to someone in need.

Siempre está dispuesto a tender la mano a quien lo necesite.

neutral

"no tener un pelo de tonto (pero ser altruista)"

— Not to have a single foolish hair; often used to say someone is smart but still chooses to be kind/altruistic.

No tiene un pelo de tonto, pero sus actos son altruistas.

informal

"valer un Potosí"

— To be worth a fortune; often used to describe a person of great moral value/altruism.

Una persona tan altruista como ella vale un Potosí.

informal

Fácil de confundir

altruista vs egoísta

It is the direct opposite and shares the '-ista' ending.

Egoísta means selfish; altruista means selfless. They are polar opposites of human character.

Él es egoísta, pero su hermana es muy altruista.

altruista vs optimista

Shares the '-ista' ending and positive connotation.

Optimista refers to having a positive outlook on the future; altruista refers to helping others selflessly.

Soy optimista sobre el futuro del proyecto altruista.

altruista vs idealista

Shares the '-ista' ending and refers to high moral values.

Idealista refers to following high ideals or dreams; altruista refers specifically to the act of helping others.

Es un joven idealista con proyectos altruistas.

altruista vs filántropo

Both involve helping others.

Filántropo is a noun for someone (usually rich) who gives a lot; altruista is an adjective for the quality of being selfless.

El filántropo es conocido por su carácter altruista.

altruista vs caritativo

Both involve charity.

Caritativo is often linked to religious or institutional charity; altruista is a broader philosophical term for selflessness.

Su labor caritativa nace de un espíritu altruista.

Padrões de frases

[Subject] es altruista.

Mi abuelo es altruista.

[Subject] hace [Noun] altruistas.

Ella hace cosas altruistas.

Es una [Noun] con fines altruistas.

Es una empresa con fines altruistas.

Actuar de forma [Adjective].

Actuar de forma altruista es importante.

Su [Noun] es profundamente altruista.

Su compromiso es profundamente altruista.

A pesar de [Noun], sus motivos eran altruistas.

A pesar del dinero, sus motivos eran altruistas.

La dicotomía entre [Noun] y el impulso altruista.

La dicotomía entre el egoísmo y el impulso altruista.

Mediante una praxis [Adjective].

Mediante una praxis altruista cambiaron el mundo.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

el altruismo (altruism)

el altruista (the altruist - person)

Adjetivos

altruista (altruistic)

Relacionado

alteridad (otherness)

egoísmo (selfishness)

solidaridad (solidarity)

generosidad (generosity)

filantropía (philanthropy)

Cadastre-se grátis para ver todos os exemplos

Como usar

frequency

Medium-high in formal and social contexts; lower in casual street slang.

Erros comuns

Él es altruisto. → Él es altruista.
Adjectives ending in -ista are gender-invariant. They do not change to -o for masculine subjects.
Una persona muy altruisto. → Una persona muy altruista.
Even though 'persona' is feminine, beginners often get confused by the '-ista' ending. It is always 'altruista' for singular.
Pronouncing 'al-tru-is-ta' (4 syllables). → Pronouncing 'al-truis-ta' (3 syllables).
The 'u' and 'i' form a diphthong and should be pronounced together quickly.
Using 'altruista' for a small tip at a restaurant. → Using 'generoso' for a small tip.
'Altruista' implies a deeper moral selflessness, while 'generoso' is more appropriate for simple acts of giving money.
Writing 'altruhista' or 'althruista'. → Writing 'altruista'.
Spanish spelling is phonetic here; there is no 'h' in the word.

Dicas

Don't Change the Gender

Always remember that adjectives ending in -ista, like altruista, are the same for both genders. This is a common shortcut for learners to sound more native.

Use it for High Praise

Save 'altruista' for truly selfless acts. Using it for small favors might sound sarcastic. It's a 'heavy' word for deep kindness.

Context Matters

In medical contexts, use it for 'donación altruista' (voluntary donation). This is the standard term in Spanish-speaking hospitals.

The Soft 'T'

Ensure your 't' is soft and dental. Place your tongue behind your upper teeth, not on the roof of your mouth like in English.

Adjective Placement

For extra emphasis in writing, you can place 'altruista' before the noun, e.g., 'su altruista corazón'. This sounds very literary.

Altruista vs. Solidario

Use 'solidario' for community-wide support and 'altruista' for individual, selfless character traits.

The 'Alter' Root

Connect it to 'alternative' or 'alter ego'. It’s all about the 'other' person.

No 'H' allowed

Unlike 'philanthropy' (filantropía), 'altruista' does not have a 'ph' or 'h' anywhere. Keep the spelling simple.

Cultural Value

In Hispanic cultures, being called 'altruista' is a significant honor. Use it when you truly admire someone's heart.

Practice with Biographies

When reading about famous heroes in Spanish, look for this word. It will help you see how it fits into professional descriptions.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of the root 'ALTR-' as 'ALTER' (other). An ALTRuista cares about the ALTER (other) person. It ends in '-ista' like 'artist', because being selfless is a beautiful art.

Associação visual

Imagine a person holding a large heart and giving pieces of it to others around them, while smiling. The heart is the 'altruismo' and the person is 'altruista'.

Word Web

Otros (Others) Ayudar (To help) Dar (To give) Desinterés (Selflessness) Bondad (Kindness) Corazón (Heart) Voluntario (Volunteer) Social (Social)

Desafio

Try to find one 'gesto altruista' you can do today, and then write a sentence about it in Spanish using the word.

Origem da palavra

Derived from the French word 'altruiste', which was coined in the 19th century by the French philosopher Auguste Comte. It comes from the Italian 'altrui' (others), which in turn comes from the Latin 'alter' (other).

Significado original: Devotion to the interests of others as a principle of action.

Romance (Latin root 'alter')

Contexto cultural

Be careful not to sound patronizing when calling someone 'altruista'. Ensure the context warrants such a high moral descriptor.

In English-speaking countries, the word 'altruistic' is also used, but it might feel slightly more 'academic' or 'scientific' than the Spanish 'altruista', which is used more broadly in moral and social praise.

Rigoberta Menchú (Nobel Peace Prize winner described as altruista). The concept of 'Donación Altruista' promoted by the World Health Organization. Auguste Comte's 'Religion of Humanity'.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Volunteering

trabajo altruista
voluntariado altruista
ayuda altruista
dedicación altruista

Medical/Health

donación altruista
donante altruista
acto altruista de donar
servicio altruista

Philosophy/Ethics

el altruismo puro
comportamiento altruista
ética altruista
valores altruistas

Social Work

fines altruistas
labor altruista
compromiso altruista
proyecto altruista

Biography/Praise

corazón altruista
naturaleza altruista
espíritu altruista
vida altruista

Iniciadores de conversa

"¿Conoces a alguien que sea verdaderamente altruista?"

"¿Crees que las empresas pueden tener objetivos altruistas?"

"¿Cuál ha sido el gesto más altruista que has visto en tu vida?"

"¿Es posible ser cien por ciento altruista en el mundo de hoy?"

"¿Crees que el altruismo se aprende o se nace con él?"

Temas para diário

Describe un momento en el que actuaste de forma altruista y cómo te sentiste después.

Escribe sobre una figura histórica que consideres un ejemplo de comportamiento altruista.

Reflexiona sobre la diferencia entre ser generoso y ser altruista en tu propia vida.

¿Cómo crees que la sociedad cambiaría si todos fueran más altruistas?

¿Qué proyectos altruistas te gustaría apoyar en el futuro y por qué?

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

Sí, 'altruista' es un adjetivo invariable. Se usa exactamente igual para un hombre (Él es altruista) que para una mujer (Ella es altruista). Nunca digas 'altruisto'.

'Generoso' se refiere a dar mucho de algo (tiempo, dinero). 'Altruista' se refiere a la motivación: hacerlo solo por el bien de los demás, sin esperar nada a cambio. Puedes ser generoso para ser popular, pero eso no sería altruista.

Se dice 'altruista'. Es un cognado, lo que significa que las dos palabras tienen el mismo origen y suenan parecido.

Sí, es un poco más formal que 'bueno' o 'amable'. Se usa mucho en las noticias, en libros y en conversaciones serias sobre la sociedad.

El plural es 'altruistas'. Se añade una 's' al final tanto para grupos de hombres como de mujeres. Por ejemplo: 'Ellos son altruistas'.

Sí, puedes decir 'un altruista' para referirte a una persona que practica el altruismo, aunque es más común decir 'una persona altruista'.

Significa que el objetivo o propósito de algo es ayudar a los demás sin buscar dinero o beneficio personal. Se usa mucho para describir organizaciones no gubernamentales.

El antónimo principal es 'egoísta'. Una persona egoísta solo piensa en sí misma, mientras que una persona altruista piensa en los demás.

Viene del francés 'altruiste', y originalmente del latín 'alter', que significa 'otro'. Literalmente significa 'enfocado en el otro'.

Se pronuncia rápido, como una sola sílaba. No es 'al-tru-is-ta', sino 'al-truis-ta'. Suena un poco como la palabra 'whisky' en la parte del medio.

Cadastre-se grátis para ver dicas e notas