Begrudged Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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begrudged
[bษชหษกrสdสd ]
Definition
resented feelings
To begrudge someone is to envy or resent their possession of something, often something that one feels they do not deserve. This term implies an unwillingness to give or grant something to someone else, specifically related to feelings of jealousy or discontent. When you begrudge someone's success, for instance, it means you wish they did not have it, and you might feel a twinge of unfairness about their situation or achievements.
Synonyms
begrudge, envy, grudge, resent.
Examples of usage
- She begrudged his promotion at work.
- They begrudged the amount of time he spent with his new friends.
- I begrudge her happiness after what she did.
- He begrudged his neighbor's new car.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Feeling begrudged often stems from comparisons with others, leading to feelings of inadequacy or envy.
- Research shows that begrudging attitudes can negatively impact relationships and personal happiness.
Literature
- Many classic stories feature characters who begrudge othersโ successes, highlighting themes of jealousy and redemption.
- Famous works often explore how begrudged feelings can lead to conflict, showcasing the darker sides of human emotions.
Pop Culture
- In movies, characters who begrudge often find themselves on a journey of self-discovery, learning that happiness should come from within.
- Songs about jealousy and envy frequently use the concept of begrudging as a core theme, resonating with listenersโ own experiences.
Social Dynamics
- Workplaces may experience grudges when teamwork is undermined by jealousy over promotions or recognition.
- Social media can exacerbate feelings of being begrudged, as individuals often compare their lives to the curated images of others.
Origin of 'begrudged'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'begrudgan', which means to give reluctantly.
- It combines 'be-', a prefix indicating something being done, with 'grudge', which has roots in Middle English, referring to a feeling of resentment.
The word 'begrudge' has its origins in the Old English word 'grucian', which means to murmur or complain. The prefix 'be-' is from Old English, meaning 'about' or 'around', and indicates a state or condition. Thus, 'begrudge' essentially evolved to mean to feel resentment about something. It has been used in English since at least the 16th century. In early usage, 'begrudge' was often associated with the notion of reluctance or unwillingness, particularly in relationships or contexts involving obligation or esteem. Over time, the word acquired a more specific connotation related to envy and resentment, particularly in contexts where one person's good fortune or happiness is perceived by another as undeserved or unfair.