Irish Examiner view: Hold the gloating in an uncertain world

In this age of uncertainty, Ireland may feel relieved that attention is elsewhere right now — but it won't be long until the basilisk stare turns back in this direction

Sat, 09 Aug, 2025 - 00:06

Search engines will offer dozens of alternatives to that German phrase which describes the malicious enjoyment taken through the misfortunes of others. But nothing quite catches it like the original: Schadenfreude.

It’s a compound word which seems particularly appropriate for the gloating, social media-driven 21st century, although linguists will point out it has existed for at least 130 years, and perhaps longer.