Vocabulary word Envious - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

ACT 9 (American College Testing)

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High School 10

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Prejudice and Bias

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Dictionary Definition of envious

Characterized by a strong desire to possess or achieve something that someone else has.
"The envious neighbor always found a reason to criticize the success of others in the community."

Detailed Meaning of Envious

It stems from a sense of discontentment or resentment towards another person's advantages, success, or possessions. When someone is envious, they may feel a combination of admiration and jealousy, wishing they had the same qualities, possessions, or opportunities as the person they envy. This emotion often arises from a perception of lacking in comparison to others, leading to a yearning to possess what they perceive as superior or desirable. Envy can manifest as an intense longing, sometimes accompanied by negative emotions such as bitterness or frustration. It is important to recognize and address feelings of envy, as they can impact one's well-being and relationships if left unchecked.

Example Sentences for Envious

1. She couldn't help but feel envious of her friend's luxurious vacation photos.
2. The envious glance he gave her new car revealed his desire for a similar one.
3. Helen's envious coworkers whispered behind her back, envious of her recent promotion.
4. The envious child couldn't hide his envy when his friend received a brand new toy.
5. Jenny's envious eyes followed her classmate's impeccable fashion sense.
6. His envious nature made it difficult for him to genuinely celebrate his friend's accomplishments.

Origin and Etymology of Envious

The adjective 'envious' has its etymological origins in the Latin word 'invidiosus,' which was derived from 'invidia,' meaning 'envy' or 'jealousy.' In Latin, 'invidia' referred to the feeling of resentment or discontent caused by the success or possessions of others. The suffix '-ous' in 'envious' is used to form adjectives and implies a characteristic or quality. Therefore, 'envious' characterizes someone who experiences a strong desire to possess or achieve something that someone else has, often driven by feelings of jealousy or covetousness. This etymology reflects the nature of envy, which is a complex emotion rooted in the comparison of one's own situation to that of others, leading to a desire for what others possess.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective envious:

content

jealous

satisfied

unenvious

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Envious

1. The envious sibling resented the attention their brother received for his artistic talent.
2. The envious employee couldn't help but compare their own achievements to their colleague's.
3. As the envious student watched his peers receive praise, he yearned for recognition.
4. Lisa's envious heart longed for the confidence and charisma her best friend possessed.
5. With envious thoughts swirling in her mind, she struggled to find contentment in her own life.
6. She couldn't help but feel envious of her friend's success.
7. His envious glances at the luxury car were hard to ignore.
8. Envious of her talent, he secretly admired her paintings.
9. Jealousy made her envious of her colleague's promotion.
10. The envious whispers grew louder as she excelled.
11. Envious eyes followed him as he entered the room.
12. Envious of their close bond, she longed for a true friend.
13. The envious competitor tried to undermine her achievements.
14. Envious comments couldn't diminish her happiness.
15. He masked his envious feelings with a forced smile.
16. Her envious nature hindered her ability to celebrate others.
17. Envious peers couldn't overshadow his accomplishments.
18. She felt envious as he flaunted his newfound wealth.
19. Envious glances greeted her as she walked the runway.
20. Despite her success, she remained envious of others.
21. Envious hearts plotted against her in the shadows.
22. Envious whispers followed him wherever he went.
23. Envious of their love, she yearned for a relationship.
24. Her envious nature strained their friendship.
25. He was envious of their happiness and contentment.