Understanding the Difference between Envy and Jealousy
What is Envy?
Envy is feeling a desire to possess something that someone else has, such as a job, material possessions, or characteristics. Envy is rooted in the feeling of lacking something that someone else has or is enjoying. The person experiencing envy wishes to obtain what the other person has, and it may consume them to the point that they can’t be happy for the other person.
What is Jealousy?
Jealousy is a reaction to a perceived threat to a relationship one has with someone else. It often comes from the fear of losing someone or something that is considered valuable. Jealousy may arise when someone suspects their partner is unfaithful or when they feel that they are being left out of a group or excluded in some way.
The Main Differences between Envy and Jealousy
One of the main differences between envy and jealousy is that envy is typically about objects, while jealousy is about people. Envy centers around wanting to have something someone else has, such as a job or car. In contrast, jealousy is about someone else receiving attention or affection from a person one cares about.
Another important difference between envy and jealousy is that envy is often more passive, while jealousy is more aggressive. Envy sufferers typically react by attempting to attain the object of their desires, often by working to acquire it themselves. Jealous people, on the other hand, tend to act out in behaviors that may damage their relationships or hurt others, such as accusations or accusations of unfaithfulness.
The Bottom Line
While envy and jealousy are often used interchangeably, understanding the differences between the two emotions can help us improve our communication and relationships with others. Envy is a desire to obtain something, while jealousy is a fear of losing something or someone we value. By recognizing these differences, we can better navigate the complex emotions that arise in our relationships with others.
Table difference between envy jealousy
| Envy | Jealousy |
| Envy is a feeling of resentful longing or desire for someone else’s advantages or possessions. | Jealousy is a feeling of insecurity, fear, and loss of possession over something or someone already possessed. |
| Envy comes with a feeling of inferiority and can lead to admiration. | Jealousy comes with a feeling of superiority and can lead to possessiveness. |
| Envy is often motivated by a lack of self-esteem and comparison to others. | Jealousy is often motivated by a fear of losing what one already possesses or security. |
| Envy can be positive if it motivates action towards improving oneself rather than tearing others down. | Jealousy is rarely positive and can lead to negative behaviors such as anger and resentment towards the person or thing that is the focus of jealousy. |