10 Obvious Yet Subtle Signs of a Jealous Friend

Whether your lab partner scores higher on a test or your best friend gets engaged before you, jealousy can pop up in almost any social situation. It’s a natural human emotion, and competition is something we all experience. You’ve probably felt jealous of others many times, but have you ever noticed when the tables turn and your friends feel jealous of you? That’s why understanding the signs of a jealous friend is so important.

Many people assume jealousy only happens in romantic relationships, but friendships can be equally vulnerable to the green-eyed monster.

The positive side is that jealousy between friends can be managed—if you recognize what’s really going on. And that’s often the tricky part.

If you suspect jealousy is affecting your friendship, it needs to be addressed. It isn’t healthy for either person. The jealous friend needs to confront their internal insecurities and work on personal growth. The non-jealous friend, on the other hand, should focus on surrounding themselves with people who are ready for genuine, supportive bonds. Life already has enough chaos—you don’t need more.

A true friend isn’t a jealous one. So if you notice these signs in the people around you, it might be best to keep your distance.

# They give backhanded compliments

The classic sign: they can’t just say, “You look beautiful,” or “Those jeans suit you.” Instead, they add a sting—“That color looks great on you, but it also makes you look cheap,” or “Those jeans would look amazing if it wasn’t for your big ass.” You get the idea.

# They avoid talking about your achievements

You’re doing well and naturally want to share your success. But instead of celebrating with you, they brush it off or shift focus to your past mistakes. Jealous friends don’t lift you up—they pull you down.

# They’re insecure

Insecurity is at the core of jealousy. You may notice your friend constantly battling self-doubt or comparing themselves to others. Instead of addressing their insecurities, they boost their ego by undermining people close to them.

# They make mean jokes

Humor often hides truth, but some “jokes” are just straight-up insults. These hurtful comments are designed to embarrass or belittle you—not to make you laugh.

# They brag about their achievements

They may minimize your wins, but their own successes? You’re expected to celebrate them like it’s a national holiday. The dynamic becomes completely one-sided.

# They believe life treats them unfairly

We all feel this way sometimes, but jealous friends take it to another level. If you get a promotion, they complain about why they didn’t get one, even if your achievements have nothing to do with theirs.

# They reject your advice

People usually accept guidance from those they look up to—but not from someone they’re jealous of. When you try to help, they get defensive or even rude. Your advice feels threatening to them.

# They never encourage you

When you’re anxious about trying something new, a good friend motivates you. A jealous friend holds you back. They discourage your growth because your progress highlights their insecurities.

# They talk behind your back

Toxic friends don’t just put you down privately—they make sure others hear about your flaws too. It’s their way of gaining validation by making themselves seem superior.

# Everything is always drama

Chaos follows them everywhere. They’re constantly involved in arguments or stirring up trouble. Jealous friends thrive on drama because it feeds their need to feel either victimized or important.