Is there a word meaning positive envy in English?

Question

I am looking for a word to mean positive envy as I don't want to sound negative and upset the person I am communicating with.  In Arabic we say 'yaghbitu - يغبط' which means you want/wish to have the same good that the other has and that you are happy that he/she has it without any insignuation that you wish they didn't have it or do not deserve to have it.
The translation in English gives me 'envy' which is closer to 'yahssudu يحسد' in Arabic which has negative connotation.
So is there a better word than 'envy' and if not, is it safe and ok to use 'envy' in this context?

Meagan · Accepted Answer

Technically “Envy” is a feeling of discontent and resentment based on someone else's possessions, abilities, or status. “Covet” is wishing, longing, or craving for something that belongs to someone else. “Jealous” is more commonly used as opposed to “envious” However, misinterpretations can still be made. I recommend adding context
Examples:
“that’s great that happened to you! I’m “jealous”
“You got a new job? That’s great, I “envy” you
https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/jealous-vs-envious

Anton · Answer

envy should not be confused with jealousy. envy may be positive. The Cambridge dictiomary has meanings similar to

envy = the feeling that you wish you had something that someone else has
Cambridge dictionary

This is not a negative verb. To say “I envy her good fortune” simply says that you wish for good fortune like hers. It is not to say “I am jealous of her good fortune”.

Jealous = unhappy and angry because someone has something that you want:
Cambridge dictionary

I conclude that you may use envy but that you should pay careful attention to context, particularly in circumstances where envy might be confused with jealousy, covetousness, admiration or esteem.

Elliot · Answer

The correct answer to the question is one that is non-negative, that of holding high regard for the others accomplishments with the hope or dream of matching them. The term is Admiration to think highly of another and with the best of motives envy the bejesus out of them.

Answered by Elliot on December 7, 2020

Is there a word meaning positive envy in English?

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