mercenary
word
Definition
A mercenary is someone who is paid to work, especially to fight as a soldier, mainly for money rather than loyalty or a cause. It can also describe a person who does something only for personal gain.
Usage & Nuances
'Mercenary' is formal for soldiers paid to fight for money, not national loyalty. Can also describe someone seen as motivated only by money ('a mercenary attitude'). Often used negatively.
Example Sentences
Some people call big business leaders mercenaries when they care only about profit.
natural
The army hired a mercenary to join their fight.
basic
He is considered a mercenary because he only works for money.
basic
The company refuses to act in a mercenary way.
basic
He has a bit of a mercenary streak—he’ll do anything for the right price.
natural
Most of the soldiers in that unit were mercenaries from other countries.
natural