# jealousy

/ˈdʒɛɫəsi/ (US) · /dʒˈɛləsi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/jealousy
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. envy of others

noun · CEFR B1

the feeling of being angry or sad because you want something that someone else has.

For teachers: resentment or envy directed toward someone because of their success, possessions, or perceived advantages.

- He felt a sharp pang of jealousy when he saw his neighbor's new car.
- Professional jealousy among the researchers hindered the project, as several team members refused to share their data for fear of being overshadowed.

### 2. romantic suspicion

noun · CEFR B1

the feeling of being worried or angry because you think a person you love is interested in someone else.

For teachers: suspicion or fear of rivalry, specifically regarding the perceived unfaithfulness of a romantic partner.

- Her constant jealousy made it very difficult for them to stay in a relationship.
- The play explores how unfounded jealousy can slowly erode the foundation of a marriage, leading to tragic misunderstandings.

## Examples

- He felt a sharp pang of jealousy when his friend won the prize.
- Her success in the industry was met with jealousy from former colleagues who had been passed over for promotion.
- The plot of the play hinges on a misunderstanding fueled by jealousy, leading the protagonist to doubt his most loyal companions without any physical evidence.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.