Resentment refers to a deep feeling of anger, bitterness, or disappointment toward someone or something due to perceived unfair treatment or past wrongs. It often lingers over time and can lead to hostility or grudges if not resolved. Resentment usually arises from feelings of betrayal, injustice, or unmet expectations. In Indonesian, “resentment” can be translated as “kedongkolan,” “dendam,” or “kekecewaan yang mendalam.”
Synonyms of “Resentment”:
- Bitterness (kepahitan perasaan)
- Grudge (dendam)
- Animosity (permusuhan)
- Hostility (permusuhan)
- Hatred (kebencian)
- Indignation (kemarahan karena ketidakadilan)
- Malice (niat jahat)
- Spite (kedengkian)
- Rancor (dendam berkepanjangan)
- Irritation (kejengkelan)
Example Sentences Using “Resentment”:
- She still harbors resentment toward her former boss for firing her unfairly.
- Years of resentment between the two families led to a deep rivalry.
- His resentment grew stronger every time he was overlooked for a promotion.
- They tried to talk things out to clear the resentment between them.
- Holding onto resentment will only make you unhappy.
- The resentment in his voice was clear as he spoke about his past struggles.
- After their argument, resentment lingered in their relationship.
- She felt resentment toward her sister for always receiving special treatment.
- He could not hide his resentment after being blamed for something he didn’t do.
- Letting go of resentment is essential for inner peace.
Related Words:
- Jealousy (kecemburuan)
- Distrust (ketidakpercayaan)
- Wrath (kemarahan besar)
- Fury (kemarahan hebat)
- Coldness (ketidakpedulian atau sikap dingin)
- Prejudice (prasangka buruk)
- Vindictiveness (keinginan untuk membalas dendam)
- Discontent (ketidakpuasan)
Antonyms of “Resentment”:
- Forgiveness (pengampunan)
- Acceptance (penerimaan)
- Contentment (kepuasan)
- Goodwill (itikad baik)
- Understanding (pengertian)
- Kindness (kebaikan)
- Love (cinta)
- Harmony (keselarasan)
- Compassion (belas kasih)
- Reconciliation (pendamaian)
Phrasal Verbs Related to “Resentment”:
- Hold against – To maintain resentment toward someone (“She still holds his mistake against him.”)
- Let go of – To release resentment or bitterness (“He finally let go of his resentment and moved on.”)
- Get over – To overcome resentment (“She struggled to get over her resentment towards her friend.”)
- Harbor resentment – To keep resentment for a long time (“He harbored resentment toward his father for years.”)
- Work through – To address and resolve resentment (“They worked through their resentment and restored their friendship.”)
Idiomatic Expressions Related to “Resentment”:
- “Holding a grudge” – Keeping resentment over time.
- “A chip on one’s shoulder” – Feeling resentment or bitterness due to past mistreatment.
- “Fanning the flames” – Making resentment worse by provoking someone.
- “Swallow one’s pride” – Letting go of resentment and accepting a situation.
- “Bearing the brunt” – Receiving most of the blame, which can lead to resentment.
How to Overcome Resentment
If you struggle with resentment, here are some ways to manage it:
- Communicate openly – Express your feelings instead of keeping them inside.
- Practice empathy – Try to understand the other person’s perspective.
- Forgive and move on – Holding resentment only harms yourself.
- Focus on personal growth – Redirect your energy toward self-improvement.
- Avoid negative reinforcement – Don’t dwell on past wrongs repeatedly.
Conclusion
Resentment is a lingering feeling of anger or bitterness due to past wrongs or perceived unfairness. It can damage relationships and mental well-being if left unresolved. However, by practicing forgiveness, communication, and self-awareness, resentment can be transformed into peace, acceptance, and emotional freedom.
