simmering resentment

USAGE SUMMARY

"simmering resentment" is a valid phrase in written English.
It is used to describe a feeling of anger or animosity that has been lingering for an extended period of time. Example sentence: "The simmering resentment between the two siblings had grown to an unbearable level."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But simmering resentment is more the norm.

The New York Times

She says police discrimination remains a source of simmering resentment.

The Guardian

The question is: is there simmering resentment there?

The Guardian

It's a one-note drama of simmering resentment.

The Guardian - Film

He detected no hostility to non-Muslims, no simmering resentment against America.

The New York Times

There was no compromise in those moments, even as simmering resentment met good-natured fun.

The New York Times - Arts

Simmering resentment at Chinese rule has manifested itself in various ways in recent weeks.

The New York Times

Despite simmering resentment, there is love if not admiration between them.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

They interact with the distinctive mixture of simmering resentment and unquestioning loyalty that complicates such sibling relationships in real life.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The warring factions are clearly established: Karen versus Drita, over a long-simmering resentment about a shared boyfriend.

The New York Times

He is in the process of losing his two children to their long-simmering resentment and spite.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "simmering resentment" to effectively describe a prolonged state of suppressed anger or animosity, particularly when the emotion has not yet manifested outwardly but is palpable. Be sure that the context supports the idea of something that has been building over time.

Common error

Avoid using "simmering resentment" to describe immediate or spontaneous anger. The phrase implies a gradual buildup of negative feelings over time, not a sudden outburst.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simmering resentment" functions as a noun phrase, where "simmering" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "resentment". It describes a state of subdued but persistent negative emotion, as exemplified in numerous examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "simmering resentment" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase, suitable for describing a state of suppressed but persistent anger or bitterness. Ludwig AI's analysis highlights its prevalence in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context supports the notion of a gradual buildup of negative feelings, differentiating it from immediate or spontaneous anger. Related phrases such as "smoldering anger" and "latent hostility" offer nuanced alternatives, depending on the intended emphasis. Its neutral register and widespread use in authoritative sources make it a valuable term for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

smoldering anger

Emphasizes the suppressed anger that hasn't yet erupted, similar to "simmering resentment".

suppressed animosity

Stresses the act of keeping animosity under control or hidden from view.

deep-seated animosity

Indicates that the animosity is deeply rooted and difficult to change, suggesting a prolonged history.

harbored animosity

Focuses on the act of holding onto feelings of animosity, implying a more personal and internal experience.

underlying bitterness

Points to a foundational layer of bitterness affecting attitudes and interactions.

latent hostility

Highlights the potential for hostility, suggesting it's present but not overtly expressed.

unspoken antagonism

Focuses on the lack of verbal expression of antagonistic feelings, implying a strained relationship.

long-held grudge

Suggests that the resentment has been maintained over a significant period, intensifying its impact.

pent-up frustration

Highlights the building pressure of frustration that is being contained.

unresolved grievance

Emphasizes that the resentment stems from a specific wrong or perceived injustice that hasn't been addressed.

FAQs

How can I use "simmering resentment" in a sentence?

You can use "simmering resentment" to describe a situation where anger or bitterness has been building up over time but has not yet been openly expressed. For example, "The "simmering resentment" between the two departments finally erupted during the meeting".

What phrases are similar to "simmering resentment"?

Alternatives include "smoldering anger", "latent hostility", or "suppressed animosity". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "simmering resentment" in formal writing?

Yes, "simmering resentment" is appropriate for formal writing. Ludwig AI's analysis of news sources and academic texts confirms that it's a grammatically correct phrase suitable for various registers.

What's the difference between "simmering resentment" and "outright anger"?

"Simmering resentment" suggests a long-term buildup of negative feelings that are not openly expressed. "Outright anger", on the other hand, refers to a direct and visible expression of anger or hostility.