Why is envy such a taboo emotion to express?

[AmusedTaupePlayer]

Hi all,
Just wondering what people think about this. Envy is a totally natural emotion — we all feel it at some point — so why is it seen as so wrong to express it?
For example, if a friend gets a new phone, why is it awkward to just say, “I’m envious — that looks amazing!” without it sounding bitter or negative? It feels like we’re expected to suppress envy or disguise it as something else (e.g., joking or downplaying it), but isn’t it healthier to be honest?
Would love to hear your thoughts. Do you talk openly about feeling envious, or do you think it’s better to keep that kind of thing to yourself?
TIA!

I think a small degree of jealousy/envy is normal - the key is recognising that you are having this emotion, make light of it, don't let it fester.

Envy is wanting what someone else has.

Jealousy is like a suspicion, a fear that you might lose something you have. Possessive suspiciousness you might say.

The main thing is not acting on them!

Envy is the thief of joy!