What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bellicose
Example
The dictator's bellicose rhetoric threatened to escalate the tensions between the two countries. [bellicose: adjective]
Example
The protesters chanted slogans and carried signs with bellicose messages. [bellicose: adjective]
belligerent
Example
The drunk man became belligerent and started picking fights with everyone at the bar. [belligerent: adjective]
Example
The two belligerent nations have been at war for years. [belligerent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Belligerent is more commonly used than bellicose in everyday language. Belligerent is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while bellicose is less common and is typically used in more formal or specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between bellicose and belligerent?
While bellicose is associated with a more formal tone, belligerent is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.