grudge - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
grudge Word Meanings
- a persistent feeling of ill will or resentment resulting from a past insult or injury
- to harbor resentment or ill feelings against someone
grudge Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
grudge Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɡrʌdʒ/
US
/ɡrʌdʒ/
grudge Word Etymology
root decomposition: 'grudg(e)' (Middle English) + 'e' (suffix); historical origin: Old French 'grugier' derived from Latin 'grudium'; memory image: imagine a person clutching a heavy stone with a name engraved on it, representing their grudge, unwilling to let it go.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Grudge is a long-lasting feeling of resentment that sticks after someone has hurt you or treated you unfairly in the past. This emotion can linger for years if you keep replaying the incident in your mind. In English, we often say you "hold a grudge" or you "harbor a grudge" toward someone, and we sometimes contrast it with forgiveness or moving on. The verb sense of grudge is rarer, but you might hear phrases like "grudge against someone" or idioms such as "bear a grudge". Learners should distinguish a grudge from a simple annoyance or anger, which is usually more fleeting, and note that a grudge emphasizes personal history and ongoing resentment.
Usage Reminders
- Hold a grudge toward someone
- Harbor a grudge in your heart
- Nurse a grudge and let it eat at you
- Bear a grudge, but try to forgive eventually
- Grudge is usually about past hurt, not everyday annoyances
Common Misconceptions
- A grudge is the same as anger or a passing mood
- Grudge always involves a legal or moral injustice
- Forgiving means instantly forgetting the hurt
- You only hold a grudge over big offenses
- Grudge is only about revenge
Thinking Differences
In English, a grudge is often framed as a long-term personal feeling that may not be visible to others. Learners tend to overgeneralize it as just anger or translate it directly from their language, missing the nuance of duration and personal history.
Learning Tips
- Practice both noun and verb forms in context
- Compare grudge with forgiveness in sentences
- Notice collocations: hold/harbor a grudge
- Differentiate long-term resentment from momentary anger
- Use varied verbs to describe emotional stance
- Read/listen to scenarios showing healthy resolution
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of the word 'grudge'?
A.A feeling of resentment or ill will
B.A type of food
C.A way to express happiness
D.A tool for knitting
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence using the word 'grudge'.
A.She holds a grudge against her friend for borrowing her book.
B.He decided to grudge his dessert at the party.
C.They had a grudge match for the championship game.
D.I will grudge the rain out of my vacation plans.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'grudge'?
A.Resentment
B.Happiness
C.Support
D.Interest
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'grudge'?
A.Dislike
B.Anger
C.Forgiveness
D.Obsession
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone may feel a grudge?
A.After the argument, she chose to forgive him and move on.
B.He still felt resentment toward his colleague for taking credit for his work.
C.They shared a laugh about their old school days.
D.Everyone was excited to go on the trip together.
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