A1 noun #285 más común 6 min de lectura

envious

When you feel envious, it means you want something another person has. For example, maybe your friend has a new toy, and you wish you had that toy too. Or, perhaps your classmate got a good grade, and you want to get a good grade like them. It's like wanting someone else's good luck or nice things for yourself.

When you feel envious, it means you want something another person has. For example, maybe your friend has a new toy, and you wish you had that toy too. You might feel a little sad or unhappy because you don't have it. It's like wishing someone else's good luck or nice things were yours instead.

When we describe someone as envious, we're highlighting a feeling of discontent or resentment aroused by another person's possessions, qualities, or luck. This emotion often stems from a comparison, where one person desires what another has, leading to a sense of dissatisfaction with their own circumstances. It's more than just admiration; it implies a longing for what someone else possesses, accompanied by a slight sense of ill-will or unease towards that person for having it. Therefore, an envious individual might not only want the item or quality for themselves but also secretly wish the other person didn't have it.

Envious, at a C1 level, denotes a more profound and often more complex emotional state than mere jealousy. While jealousy can stem from a fear of losing something one possesses, envy is characterized by a covetous longing for something another person has, often accompanied by a feeling of discontent or resentment at their possession of it. This can manifest in a desire for the object, quality, or success itself, and sometimes, in more extreme cases, a wish for the other person to be deprived of it. It's a recognition of another's superior fortune or attainment, coupled with an internal struggle against one's own perceived inadequacy or lack.

§ What does it mean and when do people use it?

The word "envious" is an adjective that describes a strong feeling of wanting something that someone else has. This feeling often arises when you see another person's success, good fortune, or possessions and wish that those things belonged to you instead. It's a common human emotion, and understanding it can help you better comprehend English conversations and texts.

Definition
Envious is an adjective used to describe the feeling of wanting something that someone else has. It happens when you see another person's success, luck, or possessions and wish they were yours.

When someone is feeling envious, they are not necessarily angry or resentful. Instead, their primary emotion is a desire to possess what another person has. This can be anything from a tangible item like a new car or a beautiful house to an intangible quality like someone's talent, intelligence, or even their happiness. It's important to distinguish "envious" from "jealous," though they are often used interchangeably in everyday conversation. While jealousy often involves a fear of losing something you already have to a rival (for example, being jealous of a partner talking to someone else), envy is more about desiring something you don't possess that someone else does.

People use the word "envious" in various situations to express this feeling. For instance, if a friend gets a promotion at work, you might feel envious of their success. Or, if a neighbor buys a brand-new, luxurious car, you might feel envious of their possessions. It's a natural reaction to seeing what others have, and it can sometimes motivate people to work harder to achieve similar goals.

She felt envious of her sister's perfect academic record.

He was envious of his friend's carefree lifestyle and travels.

The feeling of being envious can be expressed in different ways. Sometimes, it's a quiet, internal thought, while other times it might lead to outwardly expressed admiration or even a bit of longing. For example, you might hear someone say, "I'm a bit envious of your new gadget!" This implies they like what you have and wish they had one too, often in a good-natured way.

The word "envious" can be used in both positive and negative contexts, though it often carries a slightly negative connotation because it's associated with a desire for something you lack. However, it can also be a motivator. Seeing someone else's success can sometimes inspire you to work harder to achieve your own goals. For example, an artist might be envious of another's skill, which then pushes them to practice more and improve their own craft.

When you're learning English at the A1 CEFR level, understanding words like "envious" is crucial for grasping basic social interactions and emotional expressions. You'll often encounter this word in simple sentences describing feelings or reactions to others' circumstances. It's a fundamental term for describing a very common human experience.

Here are some common ways "envious" is used in sentences:

  • To describe a feeling directly: "I am envious of your new car."
  • To describe someone's look or demeanor: "He gave an envious glance at her prize."
  • In relation to a particular quality or possession: "She was envious of his natural talent for music."

It's also helpful to know that the noun form is "envy." So, you can say "He felt envy" instead of "He felt envious." Both convey the same core emotion. However, as an A1 learner, focusing on the adjective "envious" will be more immediately useful for describing people and their feelings.

Understanding the nuances of words like "envious" helps in building a more robust vocabulary and allows for more precise communication. As you progress in your English learning journey, you'll find that many emotions have specific words to describe them, and mastering these can significantly enhance your ability to express yourself clearly and effectively. So, next time you see something someone else has that you really wish was yours, you'll know just the right word to describe that feeling: "envious."

§ Definition

Definition
Envious is an adjective used to describe the feeling of wanting something that someone else has. It happens when you see another person's success, luck, or possessions and wish they were yours.

§ Where you actually hear this word

The word "envious" can be heard in many different situations, from casual conversations to more formal settings like news reports. Understanding where and how it's used can help you grasp its meaning and usage better.

§ At School

In a school environment, you might hear "envious" when discussing friendships, achievements, or even possessions among students.

She felt envious of her classmate who won the art competition.

The younger students were envious of the high schoolers' freedom.

§ At Work

In a professional setting, "envious" can come up when colleagues discuss promotions, successes, or even work-life balance.

Some employees were envious of his rapid promotion.

It's natural to feel envious when someone else gets a big bonus.

§ In the News

News reports might use "envious" when describing international relations, economic competition, or public sentiment.

Neighboring countries are often envious of the nation's economic prosperity.

The article discussed how some communities were envious of the new infrastructure in a nearby city.

§ Everyday Conversations

Beyond these specific environments, "envious" is a common word in everyday speech when people talk about desires, possessions, or others' good fortune.

  • "I'm so envious of your new car!"

  • "Don't be envious, work hard and you can achieve your goals too."

  • "She looked at their vacation photos with an envious glance."

Understanding these various contexts will help you not only recognize the word "envious" but also use it appropriately in your own communication. It's a powerful word that describes a very human emotion.

Gramática que debes saber

Nouns and adjectives have different functions. A noun names a person, place, thing, or idea, while an adjective describes a noun.

The word 'envy' is a noun, referring to the feeling itself. The word 'envious' is an adjective, describing someone who feels envy.

Adjectives often follow a form of the verb 'to be' (am, is, are, was, were) or a linking verb (feel, seem, become, look, etc.) to describe the subject.

She is envious of her sister's new car. (Here, 'envious' describes 'she'.)

Adjectives can also come before the noun they describe.

He gave an envious glance at his friend's trophy. (Here, 'envious' describes 'glance'.)

When using 'envious', it's often followed by the preposition 'of' when specifying what someone is envious about.

They were envious of his good fortune.

The CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) A1 level typically focuses on basic vocabulary and simple grammatical structures, such as identifying nouns and adjectives and using common descriptive adjectives.

At the A1 level, learners should be able to understand and use very basic phrases about personal details and concrete needs, including simple adjectives like 'happy', 'sad', 'big', 'small', and 'envious'.

Sinónimos

jealous covetous resentful grudging green-eyed

Consejos

Understand the core meaning

Start by understanding the basic definition: 'Envious' means wanting what someone else has. Think of a simple example, like wanting your friend's new toy.

Associate with a feeling

Connect 'envious' with the feeling of jealousy. While not exactly the same, it's a good starting point for A1 learners. 'I feel envious' is similar to 'I feel jealous'.

Picture it

Imagine a scenario. For example, if your friend has a big, delicious ice cream, and you don't, you might feel envious.

Use in a simple sentence

Practice using it in a basic sentence. For example: 'She is envious of his new car.' or 'I feel envious when I see their beautiful house.'

Opposite idea

Think of the opposite. If someone is not envious, they might be happy for others or content with what they have.

Listen for it

Try to identify the word 'envious' when you hear English spoken in simple contexts, like children's stories or basic conversations. Pay attention to the situations where it's used.

Flashcards with pictures

Create a flashcard with the word 'envious' on one side and a simple drawing or picture representing someone wanting something on the other. This helps with visual memory.

Repeat out loud

Say the word 'envious' several times. Practice its pronunciation. 'EN-vee-us'.

Connect to personal experience

Think of a time you felt envious (in a mild, simple way). This personal connection can make the word more memorable. 'I was envious of my brother's new toy when I was little.'

Daily check-in

For a few days, try to consciously use or think about the word 'envious' at least once. This consistent practice reinforces learning.

Ponte a prueba 114 preguntas

multiple choice A1

My friend has a new toy. I want it too. I feel...

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

If you want something someone else has, you feel envious.

multiple choice A1

She got a good grade on the test. I wish I got a good grade too. I am...

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

To wish for something someone else has means you are envious.

multiple choice A1

He has a big house. I want a big house too. I feel...

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

Wanting what someone else has is the feeling of being envious.

true false A1

If you are envious, you are happy for someone else's new car.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Falso

Envious means you want what someone else has, not that you are happy for them.

true false A1

Feeling envious means you wish you had something that belongs to someone else.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Verdadero

This is the correct definition of envious.

true false A1

When you are envious, you don't care what other people have.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Falso

Envious means you DO care and want what others have.

listening A1

The feeling of wanting something someone else has.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: She feels envious of her friend's new toy.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening A1

Wanting what someone else has.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: He is envious of his brother's good grades.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening A1

A warning about being jealous.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Don't be envious, work hard for your own things.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

I am envious of your beautiful new bike.

Focus: envious

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

She feels envious when she sees expensive clothes.

Focus: feels, envious

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking A1

Read this aloud:

It's not good to be envious of others.

Focus: not good, envious

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
sentence order A1

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: She is envious.

This sentence is a simple statement indicating someone feels envious.

sentence order A1

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: He has a new toy.

This sentence describes a possession that might cause envy.

sentence order A1

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: I want her bike.

This sentence expresses the desire for something someone else has, a key aspect of envy.

multiple choice A2

My friend got a new bike, and I felt very ___ because I wanted one too.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

To feel envious means to want something someone else has. The person wants a new bike like their friend's.

multiple choice A2

Sarah was ___ of her sister's beautiful new dress.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

Sarah wanted a beautiful new dress like her sister's, so she was envious.

multiple choice A2

He felt ___ when his classmate won the first prize in the competition.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

He wished he had won the first prize, so he felt envious of his classmate.

true false A2

If you are envious, it means you are happy for someone else's success.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Falso

Envious means you wish you had what someone else has, not that you are happy for them.

true false A2

Feeling envious means you want something that belongs to another person.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Verdadero

The definition of envious is wanting something someone else has.

true false A2

You feel envious when you see someone else's good luck and wish it was yours.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Verdadero

This is a direct description of what it means to be envious.

listening A2

The word describes how she felt about her friend's luck.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: She felt envious when her friend won the lottery.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening A2

The word describes his feelings about his brother's possession.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: He was envious of his brother's new car.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening A2

The word suggests a negative feeling about others' achievements.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Don't be envious of other people's success; work hard for your own.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking A2

Read this aloud:

I am envious of your beautiful garden.

Focus: en-vi-ous

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking A2

Read this aloud:

She felt envious of her classmate's good grades.

Focus: classmate's good grades

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking A2

Read this aloud:

It's natural to sometimes feel envious.

Focus: natural to sometimes feel

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing A2

Imagine your friend got a new, cool bicycle. You really want one too. Write 2-3 sentences about how you feel.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

My friend got a new bicycle, and it looks really fun. I wish I had a bicycle like that too. I feel a little envious.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing A2

Think about a time someone you know received something nice (like a new toy or a good grade). Write 2-3 sentences describing if you felt envious and why.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

My sister got a really good grade on her test. I worked hard too, but I didn't get as high a grade. I felt a little envious because I wanted a good grade like hers.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing A2

Complete the sentence: 'I sometimes feel envious when...' Then add one more sentence to explain why.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

I sometimes feel envious when my classmates get to go on exciting vacations. I wish I could travel to new places too.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
reading A2

How did Maria likely feel when she saw Leo's new sneakers?

Read this passage:

Maria saw her friend, Leo, wearing a brand-new pair of sneakers. They were very colorful and looked comfortable. Maria's own sneakers were old and worn out. She thought, 'I wish I had those new sneakers.'

How did Maria likely feel when she saw Leo's new sneakers?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Envious of Leo

Maria wished she had the new sneakers, which is the feeling of being envious.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Envious of Leo

Maria wished she had the new sneakers, which is the feeling of being envious.

reading A2

What emotion did Tom probably experience?

Read this passage:

Tom's older brother, David, won first place in the school art competition. David's painting was beautiful, and everyone praised him. Tom also likes to draw, but he didn't win anything. He felt a pang of disappointment and wished he had won.

What emotion did Tom probably experience?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Envy

Tom wished he had won, like his brother, indicating envy.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Envy

Tom wished he had won, like his brother, indicating envy.

reading A2

Based on the text, what is Sarah feeling towards Emily's new smartphone?

Read this passage:

Sarah's classmate, Emily, always has the latest gadgets. Today, Emily showed off her new smartphone, which had many cool features. Sarah's phone is older and simpler. Sarah admired Emily's phone and thought about how nice it would be to have one like that.

Based on the text, what is Sarah feeling towards Emily's new smartphone?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Envious

Sarah 'admired' and 'thought about how nice it would be to have one like that,' which describes envy.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Envious

Sarah 'admired' and 'thought about how nice it would be to have one like that,' which describes envy.

sentence order A2

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: She was envious of her friend's new car.

This sentence describes someone feeling envious about another person's possession.

sentence order A2

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: He felt envious when he saw their big house.

This sentence shows the feeling of envy when seeing someone else's possessions.

sentence order A2

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Don't be envious of others' success, work hard for your own.

This sentence advises against feeling envious of others' achievements.

listening B1

Listen for the emotion described.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: She felt a pang of envy when she saw her friend's new car.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening B1

Pay attention to the feeling associated with the gaze.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: His envious gaze followed their success, wishing it were his own.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening B1

Consider the hidden emotion described.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Despite her outward happiness, she harbored an envious desire for her colleague's promotion.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking B1

Read this aloud:

Can you describe a time when you felt envious of someone?

Focus: envious

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking B1

Read this aloud:

What are some healthy ways to deal with feelings of envy?

Focus: healthy, deal with

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking B1

Read this aloud:

How can envy sometimes be a motivator for personal growth?

Focus: motivator, personal growth

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing B1

Describe a time you felt envious of someone. What did they have, and how did it make you feel? What did you do about it?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

I once felt envious of my friend who got a new, powerful laptop for their birthday. I really wanted one for my studies and felt a bit down when I saw theirs. I decided to save up my money and work extra hours to buy a similar one for myself.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing B1

Imagine you have a friend who is feeling envious of your recent achievement. Write a short message to them acknowledging their feelings and offering words of encouragement.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Hey [Friend's Name], I know you might be feeling a bit envious about my recent promotion, and that's totally understandable. I've been there too. Just remember all your hard work and talent will pay off, and I'm sure your time will come very soon!

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing B1

Write three sentences using the word 'envious' to describe different situations.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

She felt envious of her sister's natural talent for music. My colleague was envious of my new office with a window view. I sometimes feel envious of people who can travel all the time.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
reading B1

How did Sarah feel when she saw Emily's bakery?

Read this passage:

Sarah had always dreamed of owning a small bakery. Her best friend, Emily, on the other hand, had just inherited a successful one from her aunt. Seeing Emily happily baking and interacting with customers made Sarah feel a pang of envy. She tried to be happy for Emily, but a part of her couldn't help but wish it was her bakery.

How did Sarah feel when she saw Emily's bakery?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Envious

The passage explicitly states that 'Seeing Emily happily baking and interacting with customers made Sarah feel a pang of envy.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Envious

The passage explicitly states that 'Seeing Emily happily baking and interacting with customers made Sarah feel a pang of envy.'

reading B1

What made it difficult for Mark to celebrate Tom's lottery win?

Read this passage:

Mark was usually a very supportive friend, but when his friend Tom won the lottery, he couldn't help but feel a little envious. Tom had always been lucky, and Mark sometimes felt like he was always working harder for less. He knew it wasn't fair to feel that way, but the feeling lingered, making it hard for him to truly celebrate Tom's good fortune.

What made it difficult for Mark to celebrate Tom's lottery win?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: He was envious of Tom's luck.

The passage states, 'he couldn't help but feel a little envious' and that 'the feeling lingered, making it hard for him to truly celebrate Tom's good fortune.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: He was envious of Tom's luck.

The passage states, 'he couldn't help but feel a little envious' and that 'the feeling lingered, making it hard for him to truly celebrate Tom's good fortune.'

reading B1

What is one potential positive aspect of envy, according to the passage?

Read this passage:

Some people believe that envy can be a motivator, pushing individuals to work harder to achieve their own goals. However, others argue that envy is a destructive emotion that can lead to resentment and unhappiness. Understanding the difference between healthy aspiration and destructive envy is important for personal growth.

What is one potential positive aspect of envy, according to the passage?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: It can motivate people to work harder.

The passage mentions that 'Some people believe that envy can be a motivator, pushing individuals to work harder to achieve their own goals.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: It can motivate people to work harder.

The passage mentions that 'Some people believe that envy can be a motivator, pushing individuals to work harder to achieve their own goals.'

sentence order B1

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: She was envious of her sister's new car.

This sentence describes someone feeling envious of a new car.

sentence order B1

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: He felt envious of his friend's success in the competition.

This sentence expresses the feeling of envy towards a friend's achievement.

sentence order B1

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Many people are envious of celebrities' lavish lifestyles.

This sentence illustrates how people often feel envious of celebrity lifestyles.

multiple choice B2

Which of the following situations would most likely make someone feel envious?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Seeing a colleague get a promotion you were hoping for.

Envy arises from desiring something another person possesses or achieves. Witnessing a colleague's promotion when you wanted it fits this description.

multiple choice B2

Choose the sentence where 'envious' is used correctly:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: She was envious of her friend's new car, wishing she had one too.

'Envious' is correctly used to describe the feeling of wanting what someone else has, as shown in the sentence about the new car.

multiple choice B2

If you are envious of someone, you likely feel:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: A desire to have what they have.

The core of envy is the desire to possess what another person has, whether it's an item, success, or quality.

true false B2

Feeling envious always leads to negative actions or resentment towards the other person.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Falso

While envy can sometimes lead to negative feelings, it doesn't always result in negative actions or resentment. It can also serve as motivation for personal growth.

true false B2

Envy is often confused with jealousy, but the two words have distinctly different meanings.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Verdadero

Envy is desiring what someone else has, while jealousy is the fear of losing something you already possess to a rival.

true false B2

It is impossible to overcome feelings of envy once they arise.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Falso

Envy is a common human emotion, and with self-awareness, empathy, and focusing on personal goals, one can manage and overcome envious feelings.

listening B2

The speaker is describing someone's reaction to a new car.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Her envious glances at her sister's new car were hard to ignore.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening B2

The speaker is describing a feeling related to a friend's success.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: He felt a pang of envy when he saw his friend's promotion.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening B2

The speaker is describing an internal feeling that contradicts outward appearance.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Despite her outward happiness, a deep sense of envy festered within her.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking B2

Read this aloud:

Describe a time you felt envious of someone and how you handled that emotion.

Focus: envious

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking B2

Read this aloud:

Discuss the difference between healthy admiration and destructive envy.

Focus: admiration, destructive

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking B2

Read this aloud:

Imagine you have a friend who is constantly envious of your achievements. How would you address this situation?

Focus: achievements, address

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing B2

Describe a time you felt envious of someone. What did they have that you wanted, and how did you deal with that feeling?

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

I once felt incredibly envious of a colleague who received a promotion I had been working towards. They were always so effortlessly charming and seemed to connect with everyone, which I found frustrating as I felt my hard work went unnoticed. To deal with this, I tried to reframe my perspective, focusing on my own strengths and setting new personal goals rather than dwelling on what I lacked. It wasn't easy, but it helped me shift from envy to motivation.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing B2

Imagine you're writing a short story. Create a character who experiences intense envy. Describe their feelings and actions driven by this emotion.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

Elara watched her sister, Lyra, accept yet another award for her musical talent. A familiar knot tightened in Elara's stomach – a mix of admiration and searing resentment. Lyra’s effortless grace at the piano, the applause that always followed her, fueled Elara's quiet bitterness. She'd spend hours practicing, yet never achieved Lyra’s natural brilliance. One evening, driven by a sudden, irrational impulse, Elara subtly altered the tuning of Lyra's piano before a major performance, a desperate act born of her consuming envy.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing B2

Write a short paragraph discussing whether envy can ever be a positive emotion. Provide examples to support your argument.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Sample answer

While often viewed negatively, envy can, in some cases, serve as a potent motivator. Witnessing someone else's success can spark a desire for self-improvement, driving us to work harder and achieve similar accomplishments. For example, an athlete might feel envious of a rival's speed, prompting them to train more rigorously. However, it's crucial that this envy is channeled constructively, transforming into inspiration rather than succumbing to destructive resentment or bitterness.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
reading B2

According to the passage, what is one potential positive outcome of envy?

Read this passage:

In many societies, there's a delicate balance between individual aspiration and collective well-being. Envy, a powerful human emotion, often plays a role in this dynamic. When people see others with greater wealth, opportunities, or happiness, it can lead to feelings of resentment or a desire for similar achievements. While some argue that envy can fuel ambition and drive progress, others contend that it fosters social division and unhappiness. Understanding the nuanced impact of envy is crucial for building harmonious and productive communities.

According to the passage, what is one potential positive outcome of envy?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: It can fuel ambition and drive progress.

The passage explicitly states, 'While some argue that envy can fuel ambition and drive progress.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: It can fuel ambition and drive progress.

The passage explicitly states, 'While some argue that envy can fuel ambition and drive progress.'

reading B2

What was the main consequence of Sarah's envy?

Read this passage:

Sarah had always been a diligent student, but her grades were consistently overshadowed by Mark, who seemed to effortlessly grasp every concept. A deep sense of envy began to fester within her. She found herself scrutinizing his every move, searching for flaws, and even secretly wishing for his failure. This unhealthy preoccupation with Mark's success started to negatively impact her own studies and well-being. Eventually, a wise teacher noticed Sarah's distress and encouraged her to focus on her own growth rather than comparing herself to others.

What was the main consequence of Sarah's envy?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: It negatively impacted her own studies and well-being.

The passage states, 'This unhealthy preoccupation with Mark's success started to negatively impact her own studies and well-being.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: It negatively impacted her own studies and well-being.

The passage states, 'This unhealthy preoccupation with Mark's success started to negatively impact her own studies and well-being.'

reading B2

How did ancient cultures generally view envy?

Read this passage:

Historically, the concept of envy has been explored in various philosophical and religious texts. Many ancient cultures viewed envy as a destructive force, capable of corrupting individuals and destabilizing societies. They often advised cultivating virtues like contentment and gratitude to counteract its negative effects. Modern psychology, however, offers a more complex view, suggesting that envy can be a multifaceted emotion with both detrimental and potentially beneficial aspects, depending on how it is managed.

How did ancient cultures generally view envy?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: As a destructive force that corrupts individuals and destabilizes societies.

The passage states, 'Many ancient cultures viewed envy as a destructive force, capable of corrupting individuals and destabilizing societies.'

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: As a destructive force that corrupts individuals and destabilizes societies.

The passage states, 'Many ancient cultures viewed envy as a destructive force, capable of corrupting individuals and destabilizing societies.'

sentence order B2

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: She couldn't help but feel envious of her friend's new car.

This sentence correctly orders the words to form a coherent statement about feeling envious.

sentence order B2

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: His envious stare made her uncomfortable at the party.

This sentence correctly arranges the words to describe an envious stare causing discomfort.

sentence order B2

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Despite her success, she sometimes felt envious of others' simpler lives.

This sentence correctly orders the words to convey the idea of feeling envious despite personal success.

fill blank C1

Her success, rather than inspiring her colleagues, often left them feeling deeply ___.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

The context implies a negative feeling arising from someone else's success, which 'envious' perfectly captures. 'Apathetic', 'content', and 'indifferent' do not fit this context.

fill blank C1

Despite his own achievements, a profound sense of ___ lingered whenever he saw his rival's accolades.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: resentment

While 'envious' describes the feeling, 'resentment' is a stronger, more C1-level synonym that implies a lingering bitterness often associated with envy. 'Satisfaction' and 'admiration' are opposite meanings.

fill blank C1

The public's ___ reaction to the celebrity's lavish lifestyle was palpable, fueled by constant media exposure.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

The lavish lifestyle and media exposure would likely provoke a desire for similar possessions, fitting the definition of 'envious'.

fill blank C1

She couldn't shake off the ___ pangs whenever her younger sister shared news of another promotion.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

'Envious pangs' is a common collocation describing sudden feelings of envy. The other options are antonyms.

fill blank C1

His ___ gaze followed every expensive item his neighbor purchased, a clear sign of his covetous desires.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

The phrase 'covetous desires' directly links to the concept of envy, making 'envious gaze' the most fitting choice.

fill blank C1

The newcomer's rapid rise to prominence evoked a decidedly ___ response from some long-serving members of the team.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

A 'rapid rise to prominence' often incites feelings of envy among those who have worked longer without similar recognition. 'Supportive', 'apathetic', and 'ecstatic' are inappropriate in this context.

multiple choice C1

Which of the following scenarios best exemplifies an 'envious' feeling?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: B

Envy is characterized by a feeling of discontent or resentment aroused by someone else's possessions, qualities, or luck. Option B directly reflects this definition.

multiple choice C1

When someone is described as having an 'envious' nature, what does it primarily suggest about their emotional state?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: B

An 'envious' nature implies a recurrent feeling of longing for what others have, often accompanied by a sense of unhappiness about that fact.

multiple choice C1

Which of these statements accurately describes the distinction between 'envious' and 'jealous'?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: A

This option highlights the key difference: envy desires what another possesses, whereas jealousy guards what one already has against a rival.

true false C1

An envious person typically feels joy and contentment when witnessing the success of their peers.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Falso

On the contrary, an envious person tends to feel discontent, resentment, or a sense of deprivation when others succeed, as they wish that success were their own.

true false C1

The feeling of being envious can sometimes motivate individuals to work harder to achieve similar successes.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Verdadero

While often perceived negatively, envy can, in some cases, serve as a catalyst for self-improvement and ambition, driving individuals to strive for what they lack.

true false C1

If you are 'envious' of someone's talents, it means you disapprove of their abilities.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Falso

Being 'envious' of someone's talents means you wish you had those talents yourself, not that you disapprove of them. You might admire them while simultaneously wishing for them.

listening C1

The sentence describes someone looking at a car with a particular emotion.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Her envious gaze lingered on his new sports car, a silent testament to her unfulfilled desires.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening C1

Listen for the feeling associated with the colleague's promotion.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Despite her outward congratulations, an envious pang shot through her when she heard about her colleague's promotion.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening C1

The artist's feeling towards another's painting.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: The artist felt an envious resentment towards the critical acclaim received by his rival's mediocre painting.
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking C1

Read this aloud:

Describe a time you felt envious, and how you managed that feeling.

Focus: envious, managed, feeling

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking C1

Read this aloud:

Discuss the difference between healthy admiration and destructive envy. Provide examples.

Focus: admiration, destructive, envy, examples

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking C1

Read this aloud:

How can one overcome feelings of envy, particularly in a competitive professional environment?

Focus: overcome, feelings, particularly, competitive, professional, environment

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
fill blank C2

Her success, rather than inspiring her colleagues, often left them feeling rather ___.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

The context implies a negative reaction to someone else's success, which aligns with the meaning of 'envious'.

fill blank C2

He harbored a deep, ___ resentment towards his brother's effortless achievements.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

The sentence describes a strong, negative feeling stemming from someone else's success, making 'envious' the most suitable adjective.

fill blank C2

The public's ___ glances at the celebrity's extravagant lifestyle were barely concealed.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

Given the 'extravagant lifestyle', it's logical that people would look with a desire for similar possessions, which is the core of 'envious'.

fill blank C2

Despite her outward composure, she confessed to feeling intensely ___ of her friend's recent promotion.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

The contrast between outward composure and an internal feeling, specifically about a friend's promotion, points to 'envious'.

fill blank C2

The opulent mansion and luxury cars were objects of much ___ admiration from passersby.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

The description of 'opulent mansion and luxury cars' naturally evokes feelings of wanting what others have, making 'envious' the best fit.

fill blank C2

There was an ___ glint in his eye as he watched his rival receive the coveted award.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: envious

Watching a rival receive an award would likely trigger feelings of wanting that award oneself, aligning perfectly with 'envious'.

sentence order C2

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Despite her outward composure, a palpable sense of envy gnawed at her when she witnessed his unprecedented academic triumphs.

This sentence describes a deep-seated feeling of envy despite an appearance of calmness, highlighting the internal conflict.

sentence order C2

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: The artist's profound melancholy was often attributed to the envious comparisons he drew between his own struggling career and the meteoric rise of his peers.

This sentence explores the psychological impact of envy on an artist, linking it to melancholy and comparative struggles.

sentence order C2

Toca las palabras de abajo para formar la oración
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta: Her colleagues, though feigning admiration, harbored a latent envy for her effortless eloquence and uncanny ability to sway opinions.

This sentence illustrates a hidden, underlying envy disguised by superficial admiration, focusing on specific admired qualities.

/ 114 correct

Perfect score!

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Esta palabra en otros idiomas

Más palabras de Emotions

abanimfy

C1

A collective psychological state characterized by a profound loss of vitality, spirit, or motivation within a specific group or community. It describes the stagnation that occurs when a social structure or organization loses its shared sense of purpose and creative energy.

abanimize

C1

Se refiere al proceso de eliminar la intensidad emocional para lograr una objetividad desapegada.

abhor

C1

Sentir un odio profundo o rechazo moral hacia algo. Es una palabra formal para expresar una repulsión intensa.

abminity

C1

To regard something with intense loathing or extreme disgust; to treat an object or idea as an abomination. It is used in high-level contexts to describe a profound moral or aesthetic aversion toward an action or concept.

abmotine

C1

Describes a state of being emotionally detached or lacking intrinsic motivation, often characterized by a cold, clinical, or indifferent stance. It is used to denote a specific lack of movement or response to external emotional stimuli.

abominable

C1

Causing a feeling of hatred or disgust; very unpleasant or disagreeable. It often describes something morally repulsive or extremely bad in quality.

abphilous

C1

To consciously withdraw or distance oneself from a previous affinity, attraction, or emotional attachment. It involves a systematic effort to break a psychological bond in order to achieve a state of neutrality or objectivity.

absedhood

C1

La 'absedhood' es un estado de profundo desapego o retraimiento emocional. Se refiere a un aislamiento intenso, a menudo autoimpuesto.

abvidness

C1

The quality or state of being intensely eager, enthusiastic, or consumed by a particular interest or desire. It represents a level of dedication and spirited engagement that often goes beyond standard enthusiasm, typical of scholars, collectors, or hobbyists.

adacrty

C1

Alacrity refers to a cheerful readiness, promptness, or willingness to do something. It describes not only the speed of an action but also the positive and enthusiastic attitude of the person performing it.

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