利己

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 利己 (りこ) is a nominal stem for self-interest or the principle of prioritizing one’s own benefit.
• Basic usage: 利己的な考えを優先する modifies self-centered thinking that can cost trust, while 利己と利他の関係 contrasts the principles of self-interest and concern for others.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Derived adjective and conceptual contrast
  • 利己的な attributes a quality to an attitude, while 利己と利他 coordinates two abstract principles. The term should not be broadened into condemnation of all necessary self-care.