Verb (transitive)
/kodiˈθi.aɾ/ (in Spain)
/kodiˈsi.aɾ/ (in Latin America)
The verb "codiciar" means to have an intense desire for something, especially something that belongs to someone else. It conveys a sense of longing or envy, typically associated with material wealth, status, or possessions.
"Codiciar" is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, though it may appear more often in literary or formal language compared to everyday conversation.
Ella siempre ha codiciado el éxito de su hermana.
She has always coveted her sister's success.
No deberías codiciar lo que otros tienen, porque cada uno tiene su propio camino.
You shouldn't covet what others have, because everyone has their own path.
Codiciar el poder puede llevar a la corrupción.
Coveting power can lead to corruption.
Though "codiciar" itself is not widely featured in many idiomatic expressions, it does relate to broader themes of desire and envy that appear in various sayings. Here are a few examples:
"Codiciar lo ajeno"
To covet what belongs to others.
No es correcto codiciar lo ajeno, ya que eso solo trae problemas.
It is not right to covet what belongs to others, as it only brings problems.
"Codiciado por muchos, pero obtenido por pocos"
Coveted by many, but obtained by few.
El puesto en la empresa es codiciado por muchos, pero obtenido por pocos.
The position in the company is coveted by many but obtained by few.
"La envidia es el peor camino para codiciar"
Envy is the worst path to covet.
La envidia es el peor camino para codiciar, pues solo genera malestar.
Envy is the worst path to covet, as it only generates unease.
The word "codiciar" comes from the Latin "cōrīcāre," which means to long for or desire. Its roots indicate a sense of strong emotional yearning, particularly for possessions.
Synonyms: - Desear (to desire) - Anhelar (to yearn for) - Ambicionar (to aspire to)
Antonyms: - Detestar (to detest) - Despreciar (to despise) - No querer (to not want)