What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
coveting
Example
She couldn't help coveting her neighbor's new car. [coveting: verb]
Example
His coveting of wealth led him to make some questionable decisions. [coveting: gerund or present participle]
longing
Example
She felt a longing for her childhood home. [longing: noun]
Example
He was longing for a sense of purpose in his life. [longing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Longing is more commonly used than coveting in everyday language. Longing is a versatile word that can be used to describe a wide range of emotional states, while coveting is more specific and less commonly used.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between coveting and longing?
Both coveting and longing are formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional contexts. However, coveting may have negative moral connotations that make it less suitable for certain formal situations.
