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Translation

Also found in: English - Vietnamese

covetous

/'kʌvitəs/
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Word: Covetous

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition: "Covetous" describes a strong desire to have something that belongs to someone else, especially wealth, possessions, or advantages. It often implies that this desire is excessive or inappropriate.

Usage Instructions:
  • Use "covetous" to describe someone who has a greedy or envious attitude towards what others have. It often carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the desire is not just strong but also morally questionable.
Example Sentences:
  1. Basic Example: "She felt covetous when she saw her friend's new car."
  2. Advanced Example: "His covetous nature led him to betray his friends in pursuit of their success."
Word Variants:
  • Covet (verb): To desire something very much, especially something that belongs to someone else.
    • Example: "He covets his neighbor's wealth."
  • Covetousness (noun): The state of being covetous.
    • Example: "Her covetousness was evident when she admired the luxurious lifestyle of celebrities."
Different Meanings:

While "covetous" primarily refers to desire for someone else's possessions, it can also extend to a general intense longing for any desirable thing, not just material possessions.

Synonyms:
  • Greedy
  • Envious
  • Avaricious
  • Desireful
  • Jealous
Antonyms:
  • Content
  • Satisfied
  • Generous
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly include "covetous," but you may use idioms that express desire or jealousy: - "Green with envy" (to be very envious of someone else’s success or possessions). - "The grass is always greener on the other side" (people often think others have it better than they do).

Notes:
  • Context: "Covetous" often has a negative implication, suggesting that the desire is excessive or leads to unethical behavior. It can be used in moral or ethical discussions to highlight the dangers of greed and envy.
  • Literary Use: The term is often found in literature and formal writing, especially in discussions about morality, ethics, or human behavior.
Adjective
  1. immoderately desirous of acquiring e.g. wealth
    • they are avaricious and will do anything for money
    • casting covetous eyes on his neighbor's fields
    • a grasping old miser
    • grasping commercialism
    • greedy for money and power
    • grew richer and greedier
    • prehensile employers stingy with raises for their employees
  2. showing extreme cupidity; painfully desirous of another's advantages
    • he was never covetous before he met her
    • jealous of his success and covetous of his possessions
    • envious of their art collection

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