Corrections Officer Entrance (CJBAT) Practice Exam

Which of the following terms is synonymous with "jealous"?

1. Envious

2. Content

3. Generous

4. Trusting

The correct answer is: Envious

The term "envious" is synonymous with "jealous" because both words describe a feeling of discontent or covetousness regarding someone else's advantages, possessions, or qualities. When someone feels envious, they often desire what another person has or wish for their own circumstances to be different, similar to feelings of jealousy. Both terms involve a comparison to others and a sense of longing or resentment that one does not have something that another person possesses. This connection between envy and jealousy highlights the emotional responses we have based on our perceptions of others’ situations. In contrast, the other terms, such as "content," "generous," and "trusting," describe positive emotional states or behaviors that do not encapsulate the feelings associated with wanting what someone else has or feeling threatened by their success. Contentment refers to satisfaction with one's own situation, generosity implies a willingness to give to others, and trust involves confidence in another person, all of which are distinct from the feelings of jealousy or envy.