What is the difference between covetous and greedy?

Definitions

covetous

- Describing a strong desire to possess something that belongs to someone else.

- Referring to an excessive or selfish desire for wealth, power, or possessions.

- Talking about a feeling of envy or jealousy towards someone else's possessions or achievements.

greedy

- Referring to an excessive or insatiable desire for food, money, or possessions.

- Describing a selfish or excessive desire for more than one needs or deserves.

- Talking about a person who is willing to do anything to get what they want, even if it harms others.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both words describe an excessive or selfish desire for something.
• 2. Both words can have negative connotations.
• 3. Both words can be used to describe a person's character or behavior.
• 4. Both words can be used to criticize someone's actions or attitudes.
• 5. Both words can be used to describe a negative impact on others.

What is the difference?

• 1. Objects of desire: Covetous refers specifically to a desire for something that belongs to someone else, while greedy can refer to a desire for anything, including things that are not owned by others.
• 2. Intensity: Covetous implies a strong and intense desire, while greedy can refer to a less intense but still excessive desire.
• 3. Focus: Covetous emphasizes the desire for something that is not one's own, while greedy emphasizes the desire for more than one needs or deserves.
• 4. Scope: Covetous is often used in a narrower context, while greedy can be used in a wider range of situations.
• 5. Connotation: Covetous has a slightly more formal and literary tone, while greedy is more commonly used in everyday language.

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Remember this!

Covetous and greedy are both words used to describe an excessive or selfish desire for something. However, covetous specifically refers to a strong desire for something that belongs to someone else, while greedy can refer to a desire for anything, including things that are not owned by others. Additionally, covetous implies a stronger and more intense desire than greedy, which can be less intense but still excessive.