Grudge

An intense feeling of resentment or ill will against someone

For other uses, see Grudge (disambiguation).

A grudge is a persistent feeling of ill will or resentment resulting from a past insult or injury. Grudges are often characterized by a refusal to forgive and can lead to long-term conflicts and strained relationships.

Characteristics

Grudges are typically marked by:

• A strong sense of injustice or unfairness.
• Persistent negative feelings towards the person or group perceived to have caused harm.
• A desire for retribution or revenge.
• Difficulty in letting go of the past incident.

Psychological Impact

Holding a grudge can have significant psychological effects, including:

• Increased stress and anxiety.
• Negative impact on mental health.
• Strained interpersonal relationships.
• Difficulty in moving forward and achieving personal growth.

Social and Cultural Aspects

In many cultures, the concept of forgiveness is emphasized as a way to resolve grudges and promote social harmony. However, the approach to handling grudges can vary widely across different societies and cultural contexts.

Related Concepts

• Forgiveness
• Revenge
• Resentment
• Conflict resolution
• Interpersonal relationships

See Also

• Forgiveness
• Revenge
• Resentment
• Conflict resolution
• Interpersonal relationships