The words “jealous” and “zealous” may sound similar but have very different meanings. Understanding the difference between these two terms is important for expressing emotions and motivations accurately in both speech and writing.
Jealous
Definition:
“Jealous” describes a feeling of insecurity, fear, or concern over a perceived threat, such as a rival or competition. It often involves suspicion, especially in the context of relationships, or a desire to maintain exclusivity.
Examples of use:
He was jealous about his co-worker’s recent promotion, feeling that he deserved it more.
Her husband shows signs of being jealous and insecure whenever she talks to other men.
The child was jealous of his new sibling, fearing he would no longer be the center of attention.
Zealous
Definition:
“Zealous” describes a passionate or enthusiastic eagerness in pursuit of a cause, objective, or goal. It denotes a strong commitment or fervent interest in achieving something.
Examples of use:
She was zealous in her pursuit of becoming a great musician, practicing for hours every day.
The activist was zealous about environmental conservation, dedicating much of her time to awareness campaigns.
His zealous approach to learning new languages impressed his friends and colleagues.
Although “jealous” and “zealous” sound alike, they express different concepts. “Jealous” refers to feelings of rivalry or suspicion, often in personal relationships or competitive situations. In contrast, “zealous” conveys a strong passion or eagerness toward a goal or cause. Knowing these differences will help in using the terms correctly and effectively in communication.
