The idiom "have green eyes" means to be jealous, envious, or distrustful.
Understanding the Idiom
The association of the color green with envy and jealousy is a long-standing one in Western culture. It stems from the physical symptoms often associated with these emotions, such as a pale complexion and possibly a greenish tinge. Shakespeare notably used this imagery in his plays.
Examples of Usage
- "She had green eyes when she saw his new car." (She was jealous of his new car.)
- "He's got green eyes about her success." (He's envious of her success.)
- "Her green eyes showed her distrust when he told her the story." (She looked at him suspiciously because she didn't believe his story.)
Origin and History
The exact origin is difficult to pinpoint, but the association of green with envy can be traced back centuries. References in literature, particularly Shakespeare, helped solidify the connection in the popular imagination. The idea likely stems from the way people physically react to feelings of jealousy, often appearing pale or even sickly.
Related Phrases
While "have green eyes" is a common idiom, other phrases also convey similar meanings:
- Green with envy: A more direct and literal expression of jealousy.
- Jealous: The most straightforward and commonly used synonym.
- Envious: Similar to jealous, but often implying a desire for what someone else possesses.
