jealous - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
jealous Word Meanings
- feeling unhappy because of someone else's good fortune
- protective of someone or something
- suspecting someone may be unfaithful
jealous Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
jealous Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdʒɛləs/
US
/ˈdʒɛləs/
jealous Word Etymology
jealous = (jeal) + (ous) | Latin 'zelosus' → Old French 'jalous' → English. Imagine a green-eyed monster resembling jealousy’s possessiveness, keeping a protective watch over their 'treasures' to prevent rivals from taking them away.
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
Jealous describes a mix of insecurity, envy, and possessiveness. It can refer to feeling unhappy about someone else’s good fortune or attention, and it also covers a protectiveness toward a person or thing. There are two main strands: a guarding, exclusive feeling toward a relationship or treasure, and a suspicion that a partner or loved one may be unfaithful. Understanding these nuances helps learners choose sentences that fit the exact meaning, whether expressing romantic jealousy, guarding a prized possession, or noting envy that lacks a possessive edge.
Usage Reminders
- Be clear about which meaning you intend: insecurity, protective jealousy, or suspicion.
- Distinguish jealousy from envy: envy is wanting what someone else has, jealousy includes guarding or doubting.
- Use jealous of with people (jealous of my friend’s new job), jealous about with situations (jealous about his popularity).
- In romance, tone matters: jealous can imply distrust, but not always.
- Avoid overusing jealous in formal writing; prefer specific verbs like suspicious, possessive, or concerned.
Common Misconceptions
- Jealousy = envy; both are the same emotional feeling.
- Jealous only applies to romantic relationships.
- Jealous means you never trust anyone, always.
- You can use jealous about with people, which sounds natural.
- Jealous is never used to describe minor concerns or protections.
Thinking Differences
In English, jealousy often spans insecurity and possessiveness; learners should distinguish it from envy and from emotions tied specifically to romance. Romance adds a judgmental tone; workplace scenarios favor neutral or descriptive language.
Learning Tips
- Learn the two main senses: possessive jealousy and suspicious jealousy.
- Differentiate jealous of (people) vs jealous about (situations).
- Compare with envy to avoid overusing jealousy for plain admiration.
- Practice with real-life contexts (romance, friendship, work).
- Notice tone: jealous can imply distrust in sensitive contexts.
- Use jealousy with appropriate adjectives to express intensity.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'jealous'?
A.Envy
B.Anger
C.Happiness
D.Confusion
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'jealous' used correctly?
A.She was jealous of her friend's success.
B.He was happy for his friend's new job.
C.They both shared the same bike.
D.The cat purred with contentment.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'jealous'?
A.Envious
B.Proud
C.Disinterested
D.Generous
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'jealous'?
A.Insecure
B.Greedy
C.Hopeful
D.Content
Step 5: Mastery
How would you describe a situation where someone feels jealous?
A.Happy and supportive
B.Indifferent and unbothered
C.Envious and resentful
D.Confident and secure
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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