Do you want to enhance your English Vocabulary? This article explores the meaning, pronunciation, synonyms, antonyms, and usage examples of the SCHADENFREUDE.
Meaning of Schadenfreude
- This word, borrowed from the German language, means when someone feels happy or satisfied because of another person’s problems or difficulties.
Synonyms
- Gloat
- Malevolent
- Epicaricacy
- Spite
Antonyms
- Compassion
- Empathy
- Altruism
- Sympathy
Examples of Schadenfreude
- He experienced schadenfreude when the overly confident chess player lost to a beginner.
- Viewers couldn’t help but feel a bit of schadenfreude when the influencer’s fake stunt was exposed online.
- She felt schadenfreude when the driver who cut her off got pulled over by the police.
- The office was full of schadenfreude when the boss’s flight got delayed after she insisted on a last-minute meeting.
FAQs for Schadenfreude
Q1. What does the word “Schadenfreude” mean in English?
A. “Schadenfreude” refers to the feeling of pleasure or satisfaction that comes from witnessing another person’s misfortune or difficulty.
Q2. Is “Schadenfreude” used in everyday English?
A. While not common in casual conversation, “Schadenfreude” is increasingly used in media, psychology, and literature to describe a specific emotional reaction.
Q3. Can I use “Schadenfreude” in IELTS or academic writing?
A. Yes, “Schadenfreude” is appropriate in academic or formal contexts if used accurately. It demonstrates a strong vocabulary range, especially in essays related to emotions or human behavior.
Q4. What is the origin of the word “Schadenfreude”?
A. The word “Schadenfreude” is borrowed from German, where Schaden means “harm” and Freude means “joy.” It literally translates to “joy from harm.”
Q5. Is “Schadenfreude” considered an English word or still a German word?
A. Though it originated in German, “Schadenfreude” is now accepted as part of modern English vocabulary and is listed in major English dictionaries.
Q6. What part of speech is “Schadenfreude”?
A. “Schadenfreude” is a noun. It names a specific emotion or psychological experience.
Q7. Are there any English alternatives to the word “Schadenfreude”?
A. English has no direct synonym for “Schadenfreude,” but phrases like “taking pleasure in someone’s misfortune” or “gloating” express similar ideas.
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