grudge

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'grudge' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a feeling of resentment or bitterness that a person holds onto over a past wrong or injustice. Example sentence: He held a grudge against his brother for years after the argument.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Thankfully, it never happened to me, but I know people who have been victims of this and who still bear a grudge against the cruel or tactless grown-up in question.

The Guardian - Opinion

Bartoli insists she holds no grudge against Inverdale, but she admits she was taken aback when the comments were one of the first things brought up in her post-victory press conference.

The Guardian

Someone I know still bears a grudge against his sister because on the eve of his 10th birthday she told him what he was getting as a present from their parents.

The Guardian - Opinion

Accusing McCluskey of "destructive behaviour" motivated by a political grudge, Murphy said the Unite leader's claim that Labour had lost the election because of Scottish Labour's disastrous performance was a "grotesque insult" to the party's membership and activists.

The Guardian

"When two people have a relationship and there is a grudge or jealousy or betrayal," says Jack Levin, professor of sociology and criminology at Northeastern University, "then the court is reluctant to charge as a hate offense".

The Guardian - Opinion

Patriota was previously Brazil's ambassador to Washington – and nobody can accuse him of holding a grudge against the United States.

The Guardian

Murdoch's willingness to embrace Labour (beyond his grudge against Major) is partly because his children were leaning that way, and because his children were able to help make Blair more amenable to him.

The Guardian - Opinion

Academic institutions held the same grudge, so du Châtelet used her wealthy background to hire tutors in order to compete with her male contemporaries.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Some worry that other grudge-bearing ranchers may copy his example.Irate westerners have long railed against the federal government's vast land holdings (see map), the result of America's 19th-century westward expansion.

The Economist

In Asian religions, we are urged to forgive not so much to propitiate a Deity but more because grudge-bearing is bad for our own spiritual health.

The Economist

Even if he narrowly won his election, or cobbled together a coalition with the Liberal Democrats, he would struggle to control Parliament especially if the grudge-bearing and control-freakery that have already alienated colleagues make him still more enemies.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the intensity of the situation when deciding whether to use the word "grudge". It implies a deep-seated and long-lasting resentment, so ensure it accurately reflects the context.

Common error

Avoid using "grudge" to describe minor disagreements or temporary frustrations. Overusing it can weaken its impact and misrepresent the true depth of feeling.

Linguistic Context

The word "grudge" functions as both a noun, describing a persistent feeling of resentment or ill will, and a verb, meaning to be unwilling to give or allow something. Ludwig provides examples that showcase both usages, confirming its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "grudge" is a versatile term that functions as both a noun and a verb, denoting a persistent feeling of resentment or the act of unwillingly giving something. As Ludwig AI confirms, "grudge" is grammatically correct and widely used in written English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, "grudge" carries a neutral register that can shift depending on the formality of the situation. Remember to use "grudge" when describing deep-seated, long-lasting resentment and avoid using it lightly for minor frustrations. Alternatives like "harbor resentment" or "hold ill will" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context. Considering these factors ensures accurate and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bear a grudge

Similar to holding a grudge but emphasizes the act of carrying it.

hold ill will

Focuses on negative feelings and intentions towards someone.

hold a resentment

Emphasizes the feeling of displeasure and bitterness toward someone or something.

feel bitterness

Highlights the emotional state of being resentful and unhappy.

have animosity

Describes a strong feeling of dislike or hostility.

harbor resentment

Focuses on the internal feeling of displeasure and bitterness without necessarily implying action.

remain resentful

Describes a lingering state of feeling wronged or unjustly treated.

remain bitter

Indicates a continued state of resentment over time.

nurse a grievance

Suggests carefully maintaining and dwelling on a past wrong.

have a bone to pick

Implies a specific issue that needs to be addressed and resolved.

FAQs

How can I use the word "grudge" in a sentence?

You can use "grudge" to describe a feeling of resentment or bitterness that a person holds onto over a past wrong or injustice. For example, "He held a "grudge" against his brother for years after the argument."

What's the difference between "grudge" and "resentment"?

"Grudge" often implies a more prolonged and deep-seated feeling of ill-will, while "resentment" can be a more general feeling of displeasure or indignation at being treated unfairly.

What can I say instead of "bear a grudge"?

You can use alternatives like "harbor resentment", "hold a resentment", or "hold ill will" depending on the context.

Is it ever healthy to hold a "grudge"?

Generally, holding a "grudge" is considered detrimental to one's well-being as it perpetuates negative emotions. Letting go of grievances is often advised for personal growth and peace.