a source of envy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a source of envy" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to express the idea that something is the cause of envy in someone. For example: "Their luxurious lifestyle is a source of envy for many of their peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

The United Nations' monthly cash allowances for Syrian refugees can be a source of envy for poor Jordanians

British public support for their orchestras and opera houses used to be a source of envy in the United States

The critical and audience success of "The Sopranos" is obviously a source of envy for CBS, NBC, ABC and Fox

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

For all its troubles, America's economy is a source of envy.

The Economist

The gains from London's position as a global financial hub, a source of envy to other countries, outweigh the losses.

The Economist

Fans in Indianapolis would no doubt rather remain a source of envy than what they have become: a sympathy case.

The New Yorker

As those channels fight for audiences and advertising, the BBC's guaranteed income is, more than ever, a source of envy.

The New York Times

British public support for their orchestras and opera houses used to be a source of envy in the United States.

The New York Times

The Gulf is once again a source of envy more than concern (see article).Surely only good can come from so much cash?

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Their smug comfort is a source of terrible envy among the rest.

The Economist

This is touchy for Mr. Diamond, whose outsize bonuses have long been a source of public envy and anger.

The New York Times

Its success at what is called "inreach," meaning proselytizing unobservant Jews, has become a source of fascination, envy and enmity.

The New York Times

Two alerts: Over at Daily Comment today, I look at how, for China, Facebook is a source of fascination, envy, and, from the government's perspective, suspicion.

The New Yorker

By Evan Osnos May 18 , 2012Two alerts: Over at Daily Comment today, I look at how, for China, Facebook is a source of fascination, envy, and, from the government's perspective, suspicion.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing why something is "a source of envy", be specific about the qualities or attributes that provoke the envy. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a source of envy" without specifying what aspect causes the envy. Be specific: instead of "His life is a source of envy", try "His career success is a source of envy".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a source of envy" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object complement. It describes something that causes or generates the feeling of envy in others, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a source of envy" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe something that causes envy. As Ludwig AI points out, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using the phrase, be specific about what qualities make something enviable. Consider alternatives like "object of envy" or "cause for jealousy" to add variety to your writing. The frequency of the phrase is high enough, and it is advised to use it appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

object of envy

Changes the focus from the cause to the thing being envied.

cause for jealousy

Replaces "envy" with "jealousy", which is a closely related term.

reason for envy

Substitutes "source" with "reason", offering a slightly different emphasis.

something to be envied

Shifts the construction to focus on the quality of being desirable.

an enviable attribute

Highlights the characteristic that provokes envy.

a position of advantage that others desire

Elaborates on the underlying dynamic of envy, focusing on the advantageous situation.

inspires envy

Uses a verb-centric structure to indicate that something provokes envy.

prompts feelings of envy

Focuses on the emotional effect of causing envy.

gives rise to envy

A more formal way to say something causes envy.

creates a sense of envy

Emphasizes the creation of the feeling of envy.

FAQs

How can I use "a source of envy" in a sentence?

Use "a source of envy" to describe something that causes others to feel envious. For example, "Her talent is "a source of envy" for many aspiring artists".

What's a more formal alternative to "a source of envy"?

A more formal alternative could be "an enviable attribute" or "something to be envied". These phrases maintain a professional tone while conveying the same meaning. Remember to adapt the choice based on the register.

What are some common things that are "a source of envy"?

Common things that are "a source of envy" include success, wealth, beauty, talent, and opportunities. The context often dictates what makes something enviable.

Is it correct to say "a source of jealousy" instead of "a source of envy"?

Yes, "a source of jealousy" is grammatically correct and conveys a similar meaning. While jealousy often implies a sense of possessiveness or fear of loss, in many contexts, it can be used interchangeably with envy.