What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
aggressive
Example
The aggressive salesman wouldn't take no for an answer. [aggressive: adjective]
Example
The dog became aggressive when it saw the stranger approaching. [aggressive: adjective]
Example
The company took an aggressive approach to marketing their new product. [aggressive: adjective]
combative
Example
The politician was known for his combative style during debates. [combative: adjective]
Example
The team had a combative match against their rivals. [combative: adjective]
Example
The martial arts class focused on combative techniques for self-defense. [combative: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Aggressive is more commonly used than combative in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts. However, combative is more commonly used in the context of physical combat or competition.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between aggressive and combative?
Both aggressive and combative can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but combative may be more commonly used in formal contexts such as sports commentary or military strategy discussions.
