object of envy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "object of envy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to someone or something that other people admire or are jealous of. For example, "Her luxurious lifestyle is an object of envy among her peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

"That tragedy made me no longer the object of envy".

The New Yorker

Coeur thus became to many an object of envy and jealousy.

Britannica

She's a magic presence to us, an object of envy and desire, we covet her.

The Guardian - Books

Mississippi (never an object of envy before) has a $930m Nissan factory on the way.

The Economist

"If you have early success and public visibility, you're the object of envy," he said.

The New Yorker

It is the object of envy in the media industry but also some scorn.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Remember how animal-rights activists turned fur coats from objects of envy to objects of scorn?

The Economist

Mangoes are objects of envy, love and rivalry as well as a new status symbol for India's new rich.

The New York Times

As word of our lucky number spread among other recent transplants, my husband and I became objects of envy.

The New York Times

They may be malign but they are still charismatic and powerful figures who lead glamorous lives and look like objects of envy as much as of disdain.

Independent

"Mangoes are objects of envy, love and rivalry as well as a new status symbol for India's new rich," Jim Yardley writes in The New York Times.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "object of envy" to concisely convey that something or someone is admired and desired by others, often implying a degree of jealousy. For example, a promotion can make someone the "object of envy" among their colleagues.

Common error

While the phrase "object of envy" is widely understood, avoid using it in highly formal or technical writing. Opt for more neutral language like "admired" or "desirable" in those contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "object of envy" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a predicate nominative or an object of a preposition. It identifies what or who is the recipient of envious feelings, as confirmed by Ludwig's analysis.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

21%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "object of envy" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that describes something or someone widely admired and desired, often sparking jealousy in others. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for neutral registers and appears frequently in news and media, as well as academic contexts. Related phrases include "coveted thing" and "source of jealousy". When using "object of envy", remember to consider the formality of your writing and avoid it in highly technical contexts. A key takeaway is to use this phrase to succinctly express admiration and desire mixed with a hint of envy. While the phrase is generally accepted, be mindful of its potential implications in more formal or sensitive settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

envy of all

Expresses that everyone feels envy.

coveted thing

Focuses on the intense desire others have for the object.

source of jealousy

Directly indicates the origin from which jealousy arises.

status symbol

Indicates that the object represents high social standing and is therefore envied.

envied possession

Highlights the ownership aspect that causes envy.

highly prized

Highlights the value and importance placed on the object.

much-desired item

Emphasizes the longing and wanting associated with the object.

admired figure

Shifts the focus to a person who is greatly admired.

point of emulation

Suggests that others try to imitate or achieve the same level.

treasure to behold

Implies a visual appreciation leading to envy.

FAQs

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

You can use "object of envy" to describe anything that others admire or are jealous of. For example, "Her new car is the "object of envy" of all her friends."

What are some synonyms for "object of envy"?

Alternatives include "coveted thing", "source of jealousy", or "much-desired item", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "subject of envy" or "object of envy"?

"Object of envy" is the more common and grammatically standard phrase. "Subject of envy" is less frequent but can be used, although it might sound slightly awkward to some.

What's the emotional implication of calling someone an "object of envy"?

Calling someone an "object of envy" implies that their success or possessions cause others to feel jealous or admiring. It can highlight both the positive aspects of achievement and the potentially negative emotions it provokes in others.