Counterinterest

/ˌkaʊntərˈɪntrəst/ noun

Definition

A competing or opposing interest that conflicts with another person's or group's goals or benefits.

Etymology

From counter- (against) + interest. Interest originally meant 'what concerns or affects someone' from Medieval Latin interesse, meaning 'to matter.' The prefix creates the idea of interests in direct opposition.

Kelly Says

In business and politics, understanding counterinterests is crucial—sometimes two parties want completely opposite outcomes, which is why negotiations are so tricky!

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