Difference Between Jealousy and Envy
Understanding the Distinction between Two Complex Emotions
Jealousy and envy are two emotions that are often confused and used interchangeably, but they are very different from each other. Both of these emotions are related to the feeling of lacking something, but they have different meanings, characteristics, and consequences. Let’s dive deeper into what distinguishes jealousy from envy.
Jealousy
Jealousy is an emotion that can arise when we feel that someone is going to take away something that already belongs to us. It’s a protective emotion that usually comes into play in interpersonal relationships. Jealousy is often accompanied by fear or anxiety and a desire to protect the person or thing that is being threatened. For example, if your partner starts to get overly friendly with another person, you may feel jealous, fearing that they might leave you for this new person. Jealousy can also manifest in response to a perceived threat to a cherished object, like a prized possession or a job position.
Jealousy is a complex emotion that can have a negative impact on relationships. It can lead to possessiveness, distrust, and controlling behavior, which can cause significant problems in friendships, romantic relationships, or professional collaborations.
Envy
Envy, on the other hand, is the feeling of wanting something that someone else has. It usually arises when we perceive that someone else has something that we don’t have but want or think we deserve. Envy can be a motivating force if we use it as inspiration to improve ourselves, or it can become a destructive emotion if we let it consume us. For instance, if your friend gets a promotion, and you feel envious of them, you might start comparing yourself to them and feeling inadequate, which can lead to bitterness and resentment.
Envy is not always negative; it can motivate us to improve our circumstances or work harder to achieve our goals. However, if envy turns into jealousy, it can be harmful to our mental health and relationships.
The Differences between Jealousy and Envy
In summary, jealousy is the fear of losing something we already possess, whereas envy is wanting something that someone else has. Jealousy involves three parties – the person who is jealous, the person who is being threatened, and the perceived threat. Envy typically involves only two people, the individual who feels envious and the person who has what they want.
Jealousy can cause destructive emotions and behaviors; envy can turn into a motivating force to improve oneself. In moderation, jealousy and envy are normal and natural human emotions. Still, when they get out of control, they can cause significant harm to oneself and others.
The Bottom Line
Envy and jealousy are two different emotions with different causes, characteristics, and consequences. Understanding their differences can help you manage your emotions and prevent them from causing harm to yourself and others. Remember, it’s okay to feel envious or jealous sometimes, but the key is to recognize these emotions and use them constructively.
Table difference between jealous and envy
| Jealous | Envy |
|---|---|
| Jealousy is a feeling of resentment or insecurity that is triggered by the fear of losing something or someone that is valuable or desired. | Envy is a feeling of longing or desire for something that someone else has, such as material possessions, status, or qualities. |
| Jealousy is often felt in relationships where one partner fears losing the other to someone else. | Envy is often felt when someone else has something that we want, such as a promotion or a new car. |
| Jealousy can lead to possessiveness and controlling behavior. | Envy can lead to feelings of resentment or bitterness towards the person who possesses what we desire. |
| Jealousy is often rooted in insecurity and a lack of trust. | Envy is often rooted in feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem. |
| Jealousy can be harmful to relationships if not addressed and managed properly. | Envy can be a motivator for self-improvement if channeled in a positive way. |