Translation guide
To feel bitterness or indignation at a perceived wrong, insult, or unfairness. Japanese expresses this through verbs, adjectives, and phrases that convey holding a grudge, feeling bitter, or being unable to forgive.
Express a deep, lingering feeling of resentment toward someone for a past wrong.
The most direct verb for 'to resent' or 'to bear a grudge.' Implies a strong, often long-lasting negative feeling toward someone.
He still resents being betrayed.
Literally 'to hold at the root.' Means to hold a grudge and not forget a past offense. Very common in spoken Japanese.
She resents even small mistakes forever.
A stronger, more literary variant of 恨む, often implying deep-seated bitterness or a grudge. Rare in everyday speech.
He resents society.
Express resentment not necessarily directed at a specific person, but at a situation, fate, or perceived injustice.
Literally 'to think it's frustrating/regrettable.' Expresses a feeling of vexation and resentment, often at one's own failure or an unfair outcome.
He resents that only he was punished.
To envy and resent someone's success or advantages. Focuses on jealousy mixed with resentment.
To feel something is unfair; a milder, more descriptive way to express resentment about unfairness.
Express that the resentment is so strong that forgiveness is impossible.
English 'resent' covers a range from mild bitterness to deep grudge. Japanese often uses phrases like 悔しく思う or 許せない instead of a single verb. Using 恨む for mild resentment can sound too strong.
恨む is about resentment for a wrong done to you; 妬む is about envy and resentment of another's success or possessions. Do not confuse them.
同僚の昇進を妬んでいる。
I resent my colleague's promotion.
Some people resent the decision as unfair.
彼の言い方には今でも腹が立つ。
I still resent the way he said it.