HOSTILITY

Definition of HOSTILITY

HOSTILITY Noun

Hostility is a noun that denotes antagonism, animosity, or unfriendliness towards someone or something, often accompanied by feelings of anger or resentment.

Antagonism and Animosity: Hostility refers to a state of opposition or conflict characterized by strong negative emotions such as anger, resentment, or contempt. It involves an active expression of unfriendliness or aggression towards a person, group, idea, or situation.

Negative Feelings and Emotions: Individuals experiencing hostility may harbor deep-seated negative feelings towards others, leading to behaviors or attitudes that are confrontational, belittling, or disdainful. These emotions can arise from perceived threats, conflicts of interest, or unresolved grievances.

Manifestations and Behaviors: Hostility can manifest in various ways, including verbal aggression, physical violence, passive-aggressive behavior, or overt hostility. It may be directed towards individuals, groups, institutions, or abstract concepts, depending on the context and underlying motivations.

Impact on Relationships and Interactions: The presence of hostility can undermine relationships, communication, and cooperation, leading to interpersonal conflicts, breakdowns in trust, and social alienation. It creates barriers to understanding, empathy, and constructive dialogue, hindering efforts to resolve differences or address underlying issues.

In summary, hostility encompasses antagonism, animosity, or unfriendliness characterized by negative emotions and behaviors directed towards others or certain entities. It can have detrimental effects on relationships, interactions, and social dynamics, highlighting the importance of addressing underlying causes and promoting constructive approaches to conflict resolution.

Examples of HOSTILITY in a sentence

  • The tension in the room was palpable, filled with hostility between the two parties.
  • The diplomat tried to defuse the hostility between the warring nations.
  • She felt the weight of hostility directed towards her when she entered the room.
  • The protesters shouted slogans filled with hostility towards the government.
  • The hostility between rival gangs escalated into violence on the streets.
  • Workplace hostility can create a toxic environment that affects productivity.
  • The political debate was marked by hostility as candidates attacked each other’s policies.
  • The teacher addressed the hostility in the

Origin of HOSTILITY

The term hostility has its roots in the Latin word “hostilitas,” derived from “hostis,” meaning “enemy” or “stranger.” Here’s the breakdown:

  • Hostis (Latin): Referring to “enemy” or “stranger.”
  • Hostilitas (Latin): Denoting “hostility” or “enmity.”

Therefore, hostility originally described the state or attitude of being an enemy or stranger. In modern usage, hostility refers to unfriendly or aggressive behavior, feelings, or attitudes toward others. It encompasses a range of actions, from verbal aggression to physical violence, and can manifest in interpersonal relationships, social interactions, or international relations. Hostility often arises from perceived threats, conflicts of interest, or differences in beliefs, values, or identities.

It can lead to tension, conflict, and antagonism between individuals, groups, or nations, and may hinder cooperation, communication, and mutual understanding.

Synonyms

  • Animosity
  • Bitterness
  • Animus
  • Enmity
  • Antagonism
  • Resentment
  • Rancor
  • Conflict

Antonyms

  • Amicability
  • Harmony
  • Cooperation
  • Harmony
  • Amity
  • Affection
  • Cordiality
  • Goodwill

Related

  • Strife
  • Tension
  • Confrontation
  • Discord
  • Alienation
  • Tumult
  • Clash
  • Feud

🌐 🇬🇧 HOSTILITY in other languages

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