C1noun5K

Hostility

UK /["/hɒˈstɪləti/"]/US /["/hɑːˈstɪləti/"]/

Definition

aggressive or unfriendly feelings or behaviour

In simple words: Angry or unfriendly behavior

Examples

  • The diplomatic talks broke down due to growing hostility between the two countries.
  • She felt a sense of hostility from her coworkers after the promotion was announced.
  • Hostility erupted on the streets as protesters clashed with the police.
  • Despite the initial hostility, the two teams eventually agreed to cooperate.
  • The region has been engulfed in hostility for decades due to unresolved conflicts.

Usage notes

Use 'hostility' to describe negative feelings or actions towards someone or something. Appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, but avoid it in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'hostile tea' – a tea party that turns unfriendly.

Collocations

  • bitter
  • considerable
  • deep
  • feel
  • sense
  • express
  • hostility between
  • hostility against
  • hostility to
  • bitter
  • considerable
  • deep
  • feel
  • sense
  • express
  • hostility between
  • hostility against
  • hostility to
  • major
  • active
  • cease
  • end
  • resume
  • begin
  • break out
  • commence
  • hostility against
  • hostility between
  • the cessation of hostilities
  • an outbreak of hostilities

Synonyms

  • animosity
  • antagonism
  • aggression
  • hatred
  • enmity

Antonyms

  • friendliness
  • kindness
  • amiability

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'hospitality', which means being welcoming and friendly.
  • Used incorrectly as a verb; 'hostility' is a noun.
  • Mispronounced as 'hos-ti-lity' instead of 'hos-til-i-ty'.