Definition

Noun: A feeling of discontented or resentful longing aroused by someone else's possessions, qualities, or luck; the state of being envious. It is a grudging admiration coupled with a desire to possess what another person has.

Usage

"Enviousness" is used to describe the state or feeling of envy. It is a formal or literary noun. It focuses on the internal emotional state itself, rather than the act of feeling it. * It is often followed by the preposition "of" to indicate the target of the feeling. * It can be modified by adjectives like "pure," "sheer," "obvious," or "petty."

Examples

• Her constant enviousness of her colleague's success created a tense atmosphere in the office.
• He tried to hide his enviousness of their expensive new car.
• There was a hint of enviousness in her voice when she congratulated him on the promotion.

Advanced Usage

• "Enviousness" vs. "Envy": While often interchangeable, "envy" is the more common and versatile term. "Enviousness" can sound slightly more formal or literary and emphasizes the sustained quality or state of being envious.
  • His envy was obvious. (Common)
  • His enviousness was obvious. (Slightly more formal/literary)
• Philosophical/Literary Context: The term can be used in discussions of character, morality, or social dynamics to describe a persistent trait.
  • The novel explores the destructive power of greed and enviousness.

Variants and Related Words

• Envious (adjective): Feeling or showing envy.
  • She gave him an envious look.
• Envy (noun/verb): The more common form for both the feeling and the act.
  • Noun: He looked with envy at their home.
  • Verb: I envy your confidence.
• Enviable (adjective): Desirable enough to arouse envy.
  • She has an enviable job.

Synonyms

• Envy: The most direct synonym.
• Jealousy: Often used interchangeably in casual speech, but traditionally implies fear of losing something one already has to a rival, whereas envy involves wanting what someone else has.
• Covetousness: A strong, often wrongful desire for something that belongs to another.
• Resentment: Bitter indignation at having been treated unfairly, which can overlap with envious feelings.

Antonyms

• Contentment: A state of happiness and satisfaction.
• Generosity: The quality of being kind and generous, especially with one's possessions or praise.
• Indifference: Lack of interest, concern, or sympathy.

Noun

1. a feeling of grudging admiration and desire to have something that is possessed by another