Grudge Meaning

1. Meaning of the Word:

A “grudge” refers to a persistent feeling of resentment or ill will toward someone, often stemming from a past wrong or perceived injustice.

2. Definitions and Meaning in English:

• Grudge (noun): A deep-seated feeling of resentment or bitterness, often due to a past offense or wrong.
• Grudge (verb): To hold a feeling of resentment or anger against someone, usually for a prolonged period.
• Grudge (noun): An ongoing conflict or dispute based on past actions or grievances.

3. History and Origin:

The word “grudge” comes from the Middle English grucchen or gruggen, which means “to murmur or complain.” This term likely stems from Old French gruger, meaning “to chew” or “grumble,” and it was used to describe a feeling of dissatisfaction or bitterness. The idea of holding a grudge as a resentment or long-lasting ill will emerged in the 14th century.

4. Detailed Explanation:

A grudge typically involves negative feelings that persist over time. It is often the result of being wronged or mistreated, whether in a personal relationship, professional setting, or social context. People who hold grudges tend to maintain resentment toward the individual or group they feel has wronged them, and this feeling can last for years, influencing future interactions and decisions.

• Holding a grudge means that an individual does not let go of past grievances, allowing the resentment to affect their present emotional state.
• Grudge-bearing refers to an ongoing attitude of harboring negative feelings against someone or something.
• While grudges can be a natural response to perceived harm or injustice, they can also lead to unhealthy relationships, perpetuating bitterness and preventing reconciliation.

5. Example Sentences (9 examples):

1. He still holds a grudge against his colleague for taking credit for his idea.
2. After the argument, she couldn’t help but harbor a grudge toward her friend.
3. It’s been years, but he still carries a grudge about the way he was treated.
4. The two families have held a grudge for generations over a land dispute.
5. She felt guilty for holding a grudge, but couldn’t bring herself to forgive him.
6. His grudge against the company was so strong that he refused to work with them again.
7. Holding a grudge can prevent you from moving forward in life and healing old wounds.
8. The grudge between the neighbors grew after the fence dispute.
9. If you hold a grudge for too long, it may negatively affect your health.

6. Synonyms with short explanation (5):

1. Resentment – A feeling of anger or bitterness due to unfair treatment, similar to a grudge.
2. Animosity – A strong feeling of hostility or ill will, often resulting from past grievances.
3. Bitterness – A feeling of sharp disappointment or anger, particularly from being wronged.
4. Rancor – A deep-seated animosity or bitterness, often associated with holding a grudge.
5. Grievance – A complaint or feeling of being wronged, which can lead to holding a grudge.

7. Related Words with short explanation (5):

1. Vengeance – The desire to seek revenge, often stemming from a deep grudge or resentment.
2. Hatred – A strong feeling of dislike or animosity, sometimes linked to the resentment behind a grudge.
3. Hostility – A state of antagonism or ill will, often a result of holding a grudge.
4. Conflict – A serious disagreement or argument, which can evolve into a grudge over time.
5. Revenge – The action taken in response to a perceived wrong, often driven by the desire to settle a grudge.

8. More Matches with short explanation (5):

1. Spite – A desire to irritate or harm someone, typically stemming from a grudge or resentment.
2. Enmity – A state of mutual hostility or animosity, often due to longstanding grudges.
3. Revenge – Retaliatory actions taken to settle a grudge or pay back a perceived wrong.
4. Vendetta – A prolonged series of retaliatory acts, often linked to holding a deep grudge.
5. Friction – A state of conflict or disagreement, which can develop into a grudge over time.

9. Antonyms:

1. Forgiveness – The act of letting go of resentment or a grudge and pardoning someone for past wrongs.
2. Amity – A state of peaceful and friendly relations, the opposite of harboring a grudge.
3. Reconciliation – The process of restoring harmony or friendship, counteracting the bitterness of a grudge.
4. Compassion – A feeling of empathy and understanding, in contrast to holding a grudge.
5. Goodwill – A friendly, positive attitude, the opposite of harboring a grudge or animosity.