A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "I'm jealous" in Spanish
Express envy or jealousy in Spanish with 'Tengo envidia,' perfect for friendly banter or acknowledging desire.
Tengo envidia
TEN-go em-VEE-dee-ahneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use this when you see a friend's new car and wish you had one too, or when someone gets a promotion you were hoping for. It's a way to acknowledge wanting what someone else has.
Alternatives
- Me da envidiaSlightly more common in some regions, emphasizes the feeling being given to you.
- Qué envidiaMore of an exclamation, like 'How envious I am!'
Ways to get it wrong
Don't confuse with 'celos'
'Celos' means romantic jealousy, like when you're worried about a partner.
Verb choice
While 'ser envidioso' exists, 'tener envidia' is the most direct and common way to express the feeling.
A small cultural note
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, expressing envy is often done playfully and without malice, especially among friends. It's usually understood as a compliment to the person who has something desirable.
Frequently asked
When do I use 'tengo envidia' vs 'tengo celos'?
Use 'tengo envidia' when you want something someone else has, like a new gadget or a vacation. Use 'tengo celos' for romantic jealousy, like if you suspect your partner is flirting with someone else.
Is 'tengo envidia' rude?
Not usually, especially when said in a friendly or lighthearted way. It's common to express desire for something someone else possesses.
How do I say 'I'm jealous of you'?
You can say 'Tengo envidia de ti.' This directly translates to 'I have envy of you' and is understood clearly.
