Jealousy vs Envy
Jealousy and envy are two terms that are frequently used interchangeably due to a misunderstanding of their meanings and connotations. Jealousy functions as a noun, while envy is used as both a noun and a verb. Both words have Middle English origins, with jealousy originating from the Old French word gelosie. This article will analyze the differences between jealousy and envy.
What does Jealousy mean?
The Oxford English dictionary defines jealousy as “the state or feeling of being jealous.” Jealousy arises from an intolerance related to another person’s wealth, position, achievement, status, and so on. Almost every human being experiences jealousy, with only the highest-order seers being devoid of this quality. Jealousy is a state of unease concerning something that may displease you and is often focused on an individual considered a rival. Rivalry forms the basis of jealousy.
What does Envy mean?
Envy, on the other hand, is akin to enmity and can also stem from jealousy. Envy represents the enmity between two individuals, nations, or organizations, and is considered a permanent feature. Despite treaties supporting friendship between two parties, envy can render them useless in practice. Envy focuses more on someone’s advantages and possessions, resulting from displeasure and unease. Contrary to jealousy, envy centers more on the object or advantage a person possesses rather than the person who possesses it. The envious person believes they also deserve the possession but were somehow deprived of it. In summary, the idea of self-possession is more prevalent in envy than in jealousy.
What is the difference between Jealousy and Envy?
Both jealousy and envy are often seen as permanent qualities present in a human being. Lexicographers may not distinguish between the two words and consider them synonyms with similar meanings. This is due to their origins occurring around the same time, with jealousy originating between 1175 and 1225 A.D. and envy between 1250 and 1300 A.D.
Key Takeaways
- Jealousy is a state of unease focused on an individual considered a rival, often related to their wealth, position, or status.
- Envy is akin to enmity and focuses more on the advantages and possessions of someone, believing that they also deserve those possessions but were deprived of them.
- Both jealousy and envy are considered permanent human qualities, and lexicographers may view them as synonyms with similar meanings.
