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hostile

[ˈhɑːstaɪl]

hostile Definition

  • 1showing or feeling opposition or dislike; unfriendly
  • 2belonging to or characteristic of an enemy

Using hostile: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hostile" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The protesters were met with hostile police officers.

  • Example

    The two countries have a long history of hostile relations.

  • Example

    Her tone was hostile towards me from the beginning.

  • Example

    The company faced a hostile takeover attempt.

hostile Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using hostile

  • an area controlled by enemy forces

    Example

    The soldiers were sent into hostile territory to gather intelligence.

  • a witness who is antagonistic or uncooperative towards the party calling them to testify

    Example

    The defense attorney had a difficult time questioning the hostile witness.

  • an unwelcoming or unfriendly reception

    Example

    The new employee received a hostile reception from his colleagues.

Phrases with hostile

  • a workplace or setting in which harassment, discrimination, or other negative behaviors are pervasive and make it difficult for someone to work or function effectively

    Example

    The company was sued for maintaining a hostile work environment.

  • an acquisition of a company by another company against the wishes of the target company's management

    Example

    The board of directors fought off a hostile takeover attempt by a rival company.

  • weapons fire directed at friendly forces

    Example

    The troops came under hostile fire as they advanced towards the enemy position.

Origins of hostile

from Latin 'hostilis', meaning 'of an enemy'

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Summary: hostile in Brief

The term 'hostile' [ˈhɑːstaɪl] refers to opposition or dislike, often with unfriendly or antagonistic behavior. It can describe relations between countries, as in 'The two countries have a long history of hostile relations,' or individuals, as in 'Her tone was hostile towards me from the beginning.' 'Hostile' extends into phrases like 'hostile environment,' and idioms like 'hostile territory,' denoting areas controlled by enemy forces.

How do native speakers use this expression?