What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inhospitable
Example
The desert can be an inhospitable place for humans to survive. [inhospitable: adjective]
Example
The hotel staff was inhospitable and made us feel unwelcome. [inhospitable: adjective]
Example
The job market is currently inhospitable for recent graduates. [inhospitable: adjective]
hostile
Example
The protesters became hostile towards the police, throwing rocks and bottles. [hostile: adjective]
Example
The jungle can be a hostile environment with many predators and hazards. [hostile: adjective]
Example
She felt a hostile vibe from her coworkers, who seemed to resent her success. [hostile: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hostile is more commonly used than inhospitable in everyday language. Hostile is a versatile word that can be used in many contexts, while inhospitable is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between inhospitable and hostile?
Both inhospitable and hostile are formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional settings. However, hostile may be considered more confrontational and aggressive in tone than inhospitable.
