provoke envy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'provoke envy' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to when someone or something causes others to feel envious. For example, "His new car provoked envy among his friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Each of their successes, real or perceived, can provoke envy or resentment in the other.

The New York Times

The Habsburgs in the 16th century were too formidable not to provoke envy and anxiety.

Britannica

He's in motion with enough platinum and diamonds to provoke envy from the jewel-encrusted Roc-a-Fella Records crew.

The New York Times

He did many things well enough to provoke envy: he was a dazzling writer, editor, dancer, cook.

The New York Times

Whether they provoke envy, indignation or aspiration, these unscientific attempts to put a pricetag on the chattels of the world's wealthiest heirs and tycoons can always be relied upon to cause a stir.

The Guardian - Business

When the winner of $165 million in the Mega Millions Lottery was asked what he would do with his newfound fortune, he answered in a manner likely to provoke envy, resentment or abject gloom in millions of hopeful but luckless lottery ticket buyers.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

And this naturally provokes envy and jealousy".

The Guardian - Sport

And third, if the married priests are doing a good job and not provoking envy, why keep the celibacy rule for priests in general?

The New York Times

It also provoked envy and opposition from his union's national leaders, notably the then general secretary, Arthur Deakin, who effectively blacklisted Jones as a near-communist.

The Guardian

After such a transformation, it is easy to see why England's ability to swing the ball at pace has provoked envy, not to mention accusations of unnatural assistance.

Independent

Based on the concept of "kaizen," or continuous improvement, the Toyota Way is the philosophy that has supported the company's steady rise since its origins in textile manufacturing in the 1930s and has long provoked envy and consternation in competitors.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "provoke envy", consider the intensity of the feeling you want to convey. Alternatives like "arouse jealousy" or "stir up resentment" might be more appropriate depending on the context.

Common error

Ensure the subject of the sentence genuinely possesses qualities or achievements that others desire. Do not use "provoke envy" if the reaction is based on misunderstanding or misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provoke envy" functions as a verb phrase where "provoke" acts as a transitive verb taking "envy" as its direct object. It describes the act of causing someone to feel envious. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "provoke envy" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, according to Ludwig AI, to describe the act of causing feelings of jealousy or resentment. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it carries a neutral register suitable for analytical discussions. While alternatives like "arouse jealousy" or "stir up resentment" exist, "provoke envy" effectively conveys the active causation of envious feelings. Remember to ensure the subject truly possesses admirable qualities and to consider the potential negative connotations of envy when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

arouse jealousy

Focuses more on triggering a general feeling of jealousy, without specifying the intensity.

spark jealousy

Highlights the sudden and immediate onset of jealousy.

stir up resentment

Emphasizes the negative emotion of resentment that is triggered.

generate jealousy

Highlights the creation or production of the feeling of jealousy.

inspire envy

Suggests a slightly more positive or admirable quality in the cause of the envy.

incite covetousness

Implies a strong desire to possess what someone else has, going beyond simple envy.

engender covetousness

Highlights the birth of desire to have what another has.

foster resentment

Suggests a gradual development of negative feelings.

fuel resentment

Indicates an increase in pre-existing feelings of resentment.

create ill will

Focuses on creating a general feeling of animosity, rather than specifically envy.

FAQs

How can I use "provoke envy" in a sentence?

You can use "provoke envy" to describe situations where someone's actions or possessions cause others to feel envious. For example, "His luxurious lifestyle is likely to "provoke envy" among his peers."

What are some alternatives to "provoke envy"?

Alternatives include "arouse jealousy", "stir up resentment", or "generate jealousy". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "provoke envy" or "elicit envy"?

"Provoke envy" and "elicit envy" are similar, but "provoke" implies a more active or intentional causation, while "elicit" suggests a response that is drawn out or obtained. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the active role of the subject in causing envy.

Can "provoke envy" have positive connotations?

While envy is generally seen as negative, "provoke envy" can sometimes be used to suggest admiration or aspiration. However, it's important to consider the context carefully, as the primary connotation remains negative.