Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing jealousy depends on the context: romantic jealousy, envy of someone's success or possessions, or even positive admiration. The most common word is 嫉妬 (しっと), but other expressions like やきもち (romantic jealousy) and 羨む (うらやむ, to envy) are also used. The verb form often uses する or 焼く.
Feeling jealous because a romantic partner is showing interest in someone else, or suspecting infidelity.
The standard word for jealousy, often used in romantic contexts. Can be used as a noun or with する to mean 'to be jealous'.
彼は彼女の男友達に嫉妬している。
He is jealous of her male friends.
A more colloquial and cute-sounding word for romantic jealousy. Often used with 焼く (やく) to mean 'to be jealous'.
An adjective meaning 'jealous' (of a person's character). Describes someone who is prone to jealousy.
Feeling jealous because someone has something you want, like a better job, a new car, or a talent.
The most common verb for 'to envy' or 'to be jealous of' someone's possessions, situation, or abilities. Often used in the form 羨ましい (うらやましい) as an adjective.
彼の成功を羨んでいる。
I'm jealous of his success.
彼女の新しい車が羨ましい。
I'm jealous of her new car.
Similar to 羨む but with a stronger negative connotation, implying resentment or bitterness. Often used for envy that borders on jealousy.
A set phrase meaning 'I'm so jealous' or 'I can't help but be envious'. Used in a slightly exaggerated way.
毎日海外旅行だなんて、羨ましい限りだ。
Traveling abroad every day? I'm so jealous!
Feeling jealous because a friend or sibling is getting more attention or seems to be favored.
Can also be used for non-romantic jealousy, though it may sound a bit strong. Often used in psychological or literary contexts.
兄弟間の嫉妬はよくあることだ。
Jealousy between siblings is common.
While primarily romantic, it can be used for non-romantic jealousy in a lighthearted way, especially among children or close friends.
妹は母が兄ばかり褒めるので、やきもちを焼いている。
My little sister is jealous because Mom only praises my brother.
Expressing that you admire someone's ability or situation in a positive way, often translated as 'I'm jealous' but without negative feelings.
The adjective form of 羨む. It can be used positively to mean 'I'm envious' in a good way, often with a smile.
そんなに上手にピアノが弾けて、羨ましい！
You can play the piano so well, I'm jealous! (admiring)
A very casual and common way to express 'I'm jealous' or 'That's nice' in a positive, envious way. Often used among friends.
明日からハワイ旅行？いいなあ！
You're going to Hawaii tomorrow? I'm so jealous!
嫉妬 (しっと) is jealousy, often with a negative or possessive nuance, while 羨望 (せんぼう) is admiration or envy without ill will. 羨望 is more formal and less common in daily speech.
彼の才能に羨望の眼差しを向ける。
She looks at his talent with admiration/envy.
Using 嫉妬 when you mean 'I'm jealous of your new phone' can sound too strong or negative. Use 羨ましい instead.
彼女が他の男と話すと、やきもちを焼いてしまう。
I get jealous when she talks to other guys.
嫉妬深い恋人とは付き合いたくない。
I don't want to date a jealous lover.
I'm jealous of my colleague's promotion (and resent it).