1.
free from greed; unselfish; desireless
Having no selfish desires or ambition. Describes a person or attitude that is not driven by personal gain. Generally a positive quality.
彼は無欲な人だ。
He is an unselfish person.
無欲に働く姿が周りから尊敬されている。
Her selfless dedication to work is respected by those around her.
無欲であることが、かえって良い結果を生むこともある。
Being free from greed can actually produce good results.
USAGE:
無欲 is generally used as a positive descriptor, suggesting purity of intention and lack of selfish motives. It can function as a na-adjective (無欲な) or as a noun.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 無欲な人 (a selfless person)
- 無欲に生きる (to live without greed)
- 無欲の勝利 (a victory achieved without attachment to winning)
SIMILAR WORDS:
欲張り is the opposite — a greedy person. 無私 means selfless or disinterested and is more literary. 淡泊 means indifferent or detached, with a more neutral tone.