This one is dealing with attitudes. The state of ones heart and mind. The very feeling of wanting something specific that belongs to your neighbor is warned against. Probably because feelings and thoughts lead to actions. But even if they don't lead anywhere you are to guard against coveting what belongs to your neighbor.
This doesn't mean you can't want something like what your neighbor has. If your neighbor has a brand new fancy car and you admire it and decide you want to get one for yourself...there may be nothing wrong with that at all. If you are envious, or resentful that your neighbor has something you do not...then that could be a problem.
This seems to mostly deal with specifics. Your neighbors wife...that specific woman. Coveting her might lead to adultery or as happened to David...murder. Both have a death sentence attached. To want a wife of your own because you see how happy your neighbors marriage is...that is allowable. To want your neighbors donkey, or his horse, or his car...that might lead to stealing. To want to get one of your own that is similar to his is OK.
We are to be ourselves. To find our own place. Our own calling. Our own things. Not to take over someone elses. This may take a lifetime to learn. It is something we should strive for.
References : St. John in the Wilderness
The Mechanics of Faith
WikiPedia-You Shall Not Covet
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