noun

vested interest

VES-tid IN-truhst

Vested interest (noun) means a personal stake in how something turns out, which gives you a reason to argue for a particular outcome and may make your advice unreliable. Example: “He has a vested interest in the merger going ahead, so treat his figures carefully.”

noun

A personal stake in how something turns out, which gives you a reason to argue for a particular outcome and may make your advice unreliable.

"He has a vested interest in the merger going ahead, so treat his figures carefully."

"Disclose any vested interest before joining the review panel."

A group or organisation that benefits from an existing arrangement and works to keep it in place. Usually plural.

"Reform was blocked by the vested interests of the industry."

legal In law, a present and absolute right to future property or benefits, which cannot be taken away.

"After five years the employee has a vested interest in the pension scheme."

How to use vested interest

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA reason to want things to go a certain way because you personally gain from it.

When to use it

Neutral to slightly critical; common in journalism, politics and business.

Memory tip

The phrase is 'vested interest', not 'invested interest' — the latter is a common mishearing.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

conflict of interest invested interest special interest

Common pairings

have a vested interest in declare a vested interest powerful vested interests

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Can you complete this real example?

He has a _____ in the merger going ahead, so treat his figures carefully.

Etymology

From vested, meaning legally settled or secured, from Latin vestire 'to clothe'.

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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stake personal stake self-interest conflict of interest lobby interest group incumbents vested right

Related words

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Rhymes for vested interest

Everest interest

See all rhymes for vested interest →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a vested interest and a conflict of interest?

A vested interest is simply having something to gain from an outcome, which is not wrong in itself. It becomes a conflict of interest when that stake sits against a duty you owe someone else, such as advising a client or voting on a contract. Every conflict of interest involves a vested interest, but not the reverse.

Is having a vested interest a bad thing?

Not automatically. Shareholders, employees and residents all have legitimate vested interests. The word turns critical when the stake is hidden, or when someone presents self-serving advice as neutral expertise.

Why is it called 'vested'?

Vested is a legal term meaning a right has settled on you for good and can no longer be withdrawn. The everyday phrase borrows that sense: your interest is fixed in the outcome rather than casual or detached.

What is the meaning of vested interest?

"vested interest" (noun) means a personal stake in how something turns out, which gives you a reason to argue for a particular outcome and may make your advice unreliable.

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