Aggressive: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word to describe someone who is forcefully trying to achieve something, often in a way that might seem too intense or overly competitive.

• He has an aggressive approach to sales, making sure to call potential clients every day

This word is used when describing someone or something that is unfriendly, antagonistic, or actively against someone or something, often conveying a sense of threat.

• The new policy received a hostile response from the employees, who felt it was unfair

Use this word to describe someone who is eager to fight or argue, often engaging in conflicts readily.

• His combative nature makes it hard for him to have a peaceful discussion

This word fits when you want to describe someone who is confident and clear about what they want, without being rude or pushy.

• She was assertive during the meeting, making her points clearly and standing her ground calmly

Used to describe someone who is likely to attack or confront, or someone very determined in their actions. This can have a negative connotation if it implies hostility or excessive force.

• The lawyers were very aggressive in court.
• His aggressive behavior made everyone uncomfortable.

This is appropriate when describing actions or opinions that are expressed with strong authority and power. It can be neutral or slightly negative depending on the context.

• His forceful argument convinced everyone in the room.
• The forceful wind knocked down several trees.

Refers to someone who is excessively assertive and often annoying about it. This word usually carries a negative connotation.

• The salesperson was too pushy, which made us leave the store.
• They don’t like working with Jane because she can be very pushy about her ideas.

Best used for situations or emotions that are very strong or extreme. It can describe experiences, people, or emotions.

• She has an intense passion for music.
• The movie's plot was so intense, I couldn’t look away.

Use this word to describe someone or something that is forceful, confrontational, or determined. It often implies a strong, assertive approach and can sometimes have a negative connotation.

• His aggressive manner scared the other team.
• The company's aggressive marketing tactics paid off.

This word is often used in medical or environmental contexts to describe something that spreads or intrudes aggressively into areas where it is not wanted. It can also be used metaphorically to describe actions that invade privacy.

• The invasive plant species quickly took over the garden.
• She underwent an invasive surgery to remove the tumor.

This word is appropriate when describing something that happens very quickly or in a short period of time. It implies speed but not necessarily aggression.

• The patient showed rapid improvement after the new treatment.
• The rapid growth of the startup was impressive.

Use this word to describe something that is extending over a large area or becoming more widely dispersed. It can be neutral or negative depending on the context.

• The wildfire was spreading rapidly due to strong winds.
• Rumors about the scandal were spreading like wildfire.