L'Envie

L'Envie, meaning "envy" in French, is a feeling of discontented or resentful longing aroused by someone else's possessions, qualities, or achievements. It is often associated with a desire to possess what another person has, whether it be material wealth, status, success, or even personal characteristics. L'envie can manifest as feelings of inferiority, bitterness, or resentment towards the envied individual.

Unlike jealousy, which typically involves a fear of losing something one already possesses to a rival, l'envie focuses on what one lacks relative to others. It is a complex emotion that can be fueled by social comparison, perceived unfairness, and a desire for self-improvement or validation.

The concept of l'envie has been explored in literature, philosophy, and psychology, often as a destructive force that can lead to negative behaviors and strained relationships. It is often considered one of the seven deadly sins in Christian theology. While a mild form of l'envie might motivate individuals to strive for greater success, excessive or uncontrolled l'envie can be detrimental to personal well-being and social harmony.