← Back to collection
Region: General | Usage example: He was green with envy when he saw her promotion.

Green with envy

Meaning

Extremely jealous.

Usage

Used to describe pronounced jealousy.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Ancient belief linking the green bile to envy.

Used in literature since the 16th century and still common.

Related Idioms

Green thumb

A talent for gardening or making plants thrive.

Get two birds with one stone

Achieve two things with one effort.

Caught with your pants down

Surprised while unprepared.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.