Schadenfreude in jobs?
Schadenfreude is a German word that describes a type of dark pleasure felt at the expense of someone else’s misfortune.
One example of Schadenfreude might be the feeling you get when someone loses the very same job you were denied a promotion for. Especially if they schemed to get that job at your expense. You can even throw their farewell party to extend that “happy” feeling.
A darkly pleasing twist on that example of Schadenfreude might occur if you later wind up in a new company — and become the boss of the same person who got your job. Or the one who rejected you in the first place. Assuming you view yourself as the person’s impending misfortune. 🙂
[For another cool German word see also Treppenwitz.]
Check out more definitions
Agree with your feelings, D. Although it’s a wonderful word in that it defines a very real concept many experience – even if they feel badly afterward.
I think it’s pronounced shah-dn-froy’-duh (with the last syllable least emphasized). I love cool words, even if I don’t suggest we practice what they describe. 😉
~ Ronnie Ann
Hi, RonnieAnn:
Wow, it saddens me some people rejoice or experience “Schadenfreude” at the misfortune of others. Ugh!
Remember, “what comes around, goes around.”
Just curious…how do you pronounce “Schadenfreude”?