student asking question

What's the difference between "envy" and "jealous"? Can I interchange them?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

These two words are often used interchangeably, but actually have slightly different meanings. "Envy" is the feeling of wanting what someone else has, whereas "jealousy" refers to the feeling of being scared that what you have will be taken away by others. They both are strong emotions and can be used seriously, but "jealous" is more commonly heard in conversation, for serious or casual issues. Ex: I am envious of your life. You have a great job, nice car, and fun friends. => Coveting someone else's possessions = I am jealous of your life. You have a great job, nice car, and fun friends. => Often used interchangeably Ex: I feel jealous because you pay attention to your other friends more than me. => Fear of others taking away what's yours

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