What is Greed?
Greed is an intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth, power, or food. It is often associated with negative connotations, implying an excessive or insatiable longing that disregards the needs of others.
Synonyms for Greed
Synonyms for greed vary in intensity, with some being strong matches and others being weaker or context-dependent.
Strongest Matches (Highly Related Synonyms)
- Avarice
- Cupidity
- Rapacity
- Covetousness
- Voracity
Strong Matches (Closely Related Synonyms)
- Selfishness
- Materialism
- Gluttony
- Ambition (when used in a negative sense)
- Hunger (when used figuratively, as in “hunger for power”)
- Possessiveness
- Hoarding
Weak Matches (Context-Dependent Synonyms)
- Desire
- Longing
- Thirst
- Yearning
- Aspiration (when used negatively)
- Eagerness (in extreme cases)
Example Sentences
- The CEO’s greed led him to exploit his employees for personal gain.
- Her avarice knew no bounds, as she hoarded wealth at the expense of others.
- The politician’s cupidity was evident in his relentless pursuit of bribes.
- He showed rapacity by seizing everything of value without regard for others.
- The billionaire’s covetousness prevented him from donating to charity.
- His gluttony extended beyond food to an insatiable craving for luxury items.
Contextual Usage
Business & Finance
In the corporate world, greed is often linked to unethical business practices, where profit is prioritized over people. Examples include stock market manipulation and corporate fraud.
Psychology & Human Behavior
Psychologists view greed as a natural but potentially destructive human trait. It is often driven by insecurity or a deep-seated need for control and power.
Literature & Pop Culture
Greed has been a recurring theme in literature, from Shakespeare’s “Macbeth” to Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” Modern films such as Wall Street also critique excessive ambition and materialism.
Related Words and Concepts
- Envy: A desire for what others have, often linked to greed.
- Gluttony: Overindulgence, particularly in food but also applicable to material goods.
- Power-hungry: A term describing individuals whose greed is focused on authority.
- Self-indulgence: A tendency to prioritize personal pleasure and satisfaction excessively.
- Exploitation: Using others unfairly for personal gain, often fueled by greed.
- Hedonism: The pursuit of pleasure, sometimes bordering on greed when unchecked.
Disclaimer
This page is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The definitions and examples provided are based on common usage and may vary depending on context. This content is not meant to incite judgment but to enhance understanding of the term greed and its implications in different settings.
