What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
altruism
Example
Her altruism was evident when she donated her entire salary to charity. [altruism: noun]
Example
He acted out of pure altruism, without any ulterior motives. [altruism: noun]
philanthropy
Example
The billionaire's philanthropy helped fund many important social initiatives. [philanthropy: noun]
Example
She was recognized for her philanthropic efforts in supporting education and healthcare. [philanthropic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Philanthropy is more commonly used than altruism in everyday language, especially in the context of charitable donations and social initiatives. Altruism is less common but is still an important concept in ethical and moral discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between altruism and philanthropy?
Philanthropy is generally considered a more formal and institutional term, often associated with wealthy donors and large-scale charitable organizations. Altruism, on the other hand, is a more personal and emotional term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
