jealousy Definition
- 1the feeling of being envious or covetous of someone else's advantages, possessions, or achievements
- 2resentment or bitterness towards someone because of their perceived advantage or success
Using jealousy: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "jealousy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Her jealousy of her sister's success was evident in her tone.
Example
He couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy when he saw his ex-girlfriend with her new partner.
Example
Jealousy can often lead to destructive behavior and strained relationships.
Example
The company's success has sparked jealousy among its competitors.
jealousy Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for jealousy
Antonyms for jealousy
Idioms Using jealousy
an idiom that means jealousy can harm both the person who feels it and the person towards whom it is directed
Example
She realized that her jealousy was a two-edged sword, causing her pain and damaging her relationships.
Example
She knew that her jealousy would only breed jealousy in others, so she tried to keep it in check.
an idiom that means jealousy is often a result of feeling inferior to someone who is more successful or talented
Example
He realized that his jealousy towards his colleague was simply the tribute mediocrity pays to genius.
Phrases with jealousy
a feeling of envy or resentment towards someone because of something they have or have achieved
Example
His jealousy over his friend's promotion caused a rift in their friendship.
a feeling of envy or resentment towards someone because of who they are or what they possess
Example
Her jealousy of her sister's beauty and charm was palpable.
green-eyed monster
an idiom that refers to jealousy or envy
Example
She couldn't help but feel like the green-eyed monster when she saw her friend's new car.
Origins of jealousy
from Old French 'jalousie', meaning 'jealousy, suspicion, or mistrust'
Summary: jealousy in Brief
Jealousy [ˈdʒɛləsi] is a feeling of envy or resentment towards someone else's advantages, possessions, or achievements. It can lead to destructive behavior and strained relationships, as exemplified by 'Jealousy can often lead to destructive behavior and strained relationships.' The phrase 'jealousy over' denotes envy or resentment towards something someone has achieved, while 'jealousy of' denotes envy or resentment towards someone's qualities or possessions. Idioms like 'jealousy is a two-edged sword' and 'jealousy breeds jealousy' highlight the negative effects of jealousy.