Translation guide
The English word "envious" describes a feeling of wanting something that someone else has. In Japanese, expressing this feeling depends on whether you are describing a general state, a specific object of envy, or a more positive admiration. The most common and natural expressions are 羨ましい (urayamashii) for direct envy and 妬ましい (netamashii) for stronger, often resentful jealousy. This guide will help you choose the right word and phrase for your situation.
I'm envious!
I'm so envious of you!
Expressing that you wish you had what someone else has, without strong negative connotation.
The most common and neutral way to say you are envious. It can be used in casual conversation and is often said directly to the person you envy, sometimes as a compliment.
I'm envious of his new car.
A slightly more formal or written way to express envy. Literally "think enviously."
A stronger, more negative envy, often implying resentment or jealousy. Use carefully as it can sound bitter.
Directing your envy toward a person, often in a comparative way.
Use the particle が to mark the person you are envious of. This is the standard pattern.
Expressing a positive or wistful envy, often when you admire someone's qualities or lifestyle.
Clarifying the difference between envy (wanting what someone else has) and jealousy (fear of losing something you have).
While English often uses 'jealous' for both, Japanese distinguishes clearly. 嫉妬 is for romantic jealousy or possessiveness. 羨ましい is for wanting what someone else has.
羨ましい (urayamashii) is a common, often light-hearted expression of envy. 妬ましい (netamashii) carries a much stronger, negative, and resentful tone. Using 妬ましい when you mean a simple 'I'm so jealous!' could make you sound bitter or mean-spirited.
Lucky you, I'm so envious! (friendly)
I'm envious of your vacation.
I feel envious of his success.
I'm envious of her talent (with resentment).
I'm envious of him.
I'm envious of that couple.
The verb 羨む (urayamu) is less common in speech but appears in writing. It takes the object particle を.
It's not good to envy others.
This verb means to admire or long for something, often with a sense of idealization. It is less about wanting to take something away and more about aspiring to be like someone.
I admire her way of life (and wish I could be like her).
A formal noun meaning envy or admiration. Often used in compound phrases like 羨望の眼差し (a look of envy).
He is the object of envy.
I'm jealous of his ex-girlfriend.
I'm envious of his success.
妬ましいわ。
I resent that. (bitter)
If your feeling is more about admiration and aspiration, use 憧れる (akogareru). If it's a simple wish to have what someone else has, use 羨ましい (urayamashii).
I admire his lifestyle (and want to live like that).
I'm envious of his salary.