There’s a particular thrill that comes from staring down a seemingly simple
crossword clue
, only for it to cleverly hide a layer of delightful complexity. It’s the kind of moment that makes you appreciate the artistry of puzzle setters, and often, it’s the moment you learn something new about the English language. Today, we’re diving into one such beguiling entry: “Be jealous of (4)“.
At first glance, this
crossword clue
might seem straightforward. The immediate go-to, of course, is “envy.” It fits the sentiment, it’s a common synonym, and it’s a perfectly good four-letter word. But here’s where the setter’s genius often shines: the subtle addition of “of.” The clue isn’t just “Feel jealous,” or “Envy,” but “Be jealous
of
.” This preposition is a massive hint, guiding us away from simple synonyms and towards a word that inherently carries that directional meaning.
Many seasoned solvers know that phrasal verbs or idiomatic expressions are frequent fodder for challenging
crossword clue
setters. When a clue includes a preposition like “of,” “for,” “with,” or “on,” it’s a strong signal to think beyond a single-word equivalent that merely expresses the core emotion or action. Instead, we need a verb or concept that naturally integrates that relationship with an object or person. This is where the hunt for the perfect four-letter word truly begins.
The constraint of just four letters is both a blessing and a curse. It limits the pool of potential answers dramatically, which can sometimes make the solution pop out. However, it also means the word has to be incredibly precise, condensing a nuanced meaning into a very compact form. We can’t afford any wasted letters or near misses. The answer to this specific
crossword clue
must perfectly encapsulate “be jealous of” within those strict letter confines.
When tackling a
crossword clue
like this, a common strategy is to consider all the ways one can
be jealous of
someone or something. Does it imply coveting? Resenting? Wishing one had what another possesses? Each of these interpretations might lead to a slightly different direction in your vocabulary search. The beauty of these puzzles is that they push us to explore the full spectrum of a word’s meaning and its closest relatives.
This isn’t just about finding
a
word that means “envy”; it’s about finding
the
word that flawlessly stands in for the entire phrase “be jealous of” within a four-letter framework. It’s a classic example of how a brilliant
crossword clue
leverages common language to lead you down a very specific, and often less obvious, path to the solution. It requires you to think about the action of being jealous, and the direct object of that jealousy, all wrapped up in a tidy little package.
The satisfaction of deciphering a
crossword clue
that initially stumps you is unmatched. It’s a testament to the power of careful wordplay and a deep dive into the English lexicon. We’ve explored the nuances, the length constraint, and the critical role of that little “of.” Now, it’s about piecing together those insights to unveil the elusive four-letter word that perfectly captures “Be jealous of.” Get ready to stretch your vocabulary and enjoy that “aha!” moment.
Available Answers:
ENVY.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Monday, 10 November 2025