HOSTILE

Definition of HOSTILE

HOSTILE Adjective and Noun

Hostile is primarily an adjective that describes something unfriendly, antagonistic, or aggressive. It refers to attitudes, actions, or environments that are characterized by opposition, conflict, or an unwillingness to cooperate. Hostile can also be used as a noun to refer to an enemy or adversary, though this use is less common.

HOSTILE as an adjective

Unfriendly or Antagonistic: At its core, hostile describes attitudes, behavior, or actions that are unfriendly, aggressive, or antagonistic. A hostile person is someone who displays open animosity, distrust, or ill will toward others. For example, a hostile remark might be rude or confrontational, intended to provoke or offend.

Opposed or Resistant: Hostile can describe situations where there is strong resistance or opposition. For instance, a hostile takeover in business refers to an aggressive attempt to seize control of a company without the approval of its management. In this context, hostile conveys a sense of conflict and force.

Aggressive or Violent: In extreme cases, hostile refers to actions that are not only unfriendly but also violent or dangerous. Hostile forces, for example, are armed groups or individuals who are engaged in conflict, war, or combat. A hostile environment might be one where there is a constant threat of aggression or violence.

Unwelcoming or Inhospitable: Hostile is often used to describe environments or situations that are unwelcoming or inhospitable. For example, a hostile work environment is one where employees feel threatened, disrespected, or unsafe due to negative interactions or treatment. Similarly, a hostile climate can refer to an environment where living conditions are harsh and survival is difficult.

Psychological and Emotional Hostility: Hostile can also describe emotional states where someone feels anger, resentment, or hostility toward others. A person who is in a hostile mood might be easily irritated, quick to argue, or prone to aggression. This emotional hostility often results in strained relationships and conflicts.

Hostile Behavior in Nature: In nature, hostile can refer to animals or conditions that pose a threat to other life forms. For example, a hostile animal might be one that is territorial and reacts aggressively to perceived threats. Likewise, a hostile environment could describe extreme weather conditions or dangerous terrain.

HOSTILE as a noun

An Enemy or Opponent: As a noun, hostile is used to refer to an enemy or adversary. This usage is less common in modern language but can still be found in military or conflict-related contexts. For instance, “The hostiles were advancing on the fort” refers to enemy forces moving toward a position in a battle.

In conclusion, hostile is primarily an adjective that describes unfriendly, antagonistic, or aggressive attitudes, actions, or environments. It conveys a sense of opposition, conflict, and resistance, whether in personal relationships, business dealings, or natural settings. As a noun, it can also refer to an enemy or adversary. Whether describing human behavior, psychological states, or environmental conditions, hostile emphasizes conflict, danger, and a lack of cooperation or warmth.

ALLIED

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INFILTRATION

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CONFLICT

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CHEMICAL WARFARE

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Examples of HOSTILE in a sentence

HOSTILE as an adjective in a sentence

• The hostile environment in the office made it difficult for employees to collaborate effectively.
• The hostile response from the crowd was unexpected and made the speaker nervous.
• The hostile takeover attempt by the rival company caused significant tension in the market.
• She noticed a hostile tone in his voice, which suggested that he was not pleased with the proposal.
• The hostile weather conditions forced the team to postpone their outdoor activities.
• The hostile attitude of the opposing team was evident from the start of the match.
• Despite the hostile reception, the diplomat continued to advocate for peaceful negotiations.
• The hostile reactions of the locals were due to the sudden influx of tourists in their small town.

HOSTILE as a noun in a sentence

• The general’s strategy involved negotiating with both allies and hostiles to ensure a secure perimeter.
• During the conflict, identifying the hostiles was crucial for the safety of the troops.
• The soldiers were trained to recognize the behavior of hostiles in the region.
• The company’s security measures included protocols for dealing with potential hostiles.
• In the game, players must avoid encounters with hostiles to survive and complete their mission.
• The intelligence report provided details about the known hostiles in the area.
• The presence of hostiles near the border was a significant concern for national security.
• The team was equipped with specialized gear to handle situations involving hostiles in high-risk zones.

Origin of HOSTILE

The word hostile has its origins in Latin, evolving through Old French before becoming part of Modern English, and it describes a state of antagonism or unfriendliness.

• Latin:
  • Hostilis (pertaining to an enemy, hostile)
  • The Latin term hostilis means “pertaining to an enemy” or “hostile,” derived from hostis (enemy). It reflects a sense of enmity or antagonism.
• Old French:
  • Hostile (unfriendly, antagonistic)
  • In Old French, hostile (from Latin hostilis) was used to describe something or someone that was unfriendly or antagonistic, maintaining the sense of enmity from Latin.
• Middle English:
  • Hostile (unfriendly, antagonistic)
  • By Middle English, hostile described actions or attitudes characterized by hostility or antagonism, reflecting its Old French and Latin origins.
• Modern English:
  • Hostile (showing or feeling opposition or unfriendliness)
  • In Modern English, hostile denotes a state of showing or feeling opposition, antagonism, or unfriendliness, preserving its historical meaning from Latin and Old French.

The term hostile has retained its core meaning of enmity or antagonism from its Latin origin in hostilis, through Old French and Middle English, to its current use in English, where it describes an unfriendly or adversarial attitude.

THEATRE

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TAGLISH

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ELUSIVE

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SELFISH

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