Aggressiveness: meaning, definitions and examples

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aggressiveness

 

[ əˌɡrɛsɪvˈnəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

behavior

The quality of being aggressive; readiness or disposition to attack or confront.

Synonyms

belligerence, combativeness, hostility.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
aggressiveness

Emphasizes a proactive and dynamic attitude, often used in sports, business, and personal ambition. It can have a positive connotation in these fields.

  • His aggressiveness on the basketball court made him a formidable opponent
  • The company's aggressiveness in the market led to significant growth
hostility

Describes a deep-seated and often overt antagonism, typically carrying a strong negative connotation. Commonly used in interpersonal relations and international affairs.

  • The manager's hostility towards the staff caused low morale
  • Hostility between the neighboring countries remains a barrier to peace
belligerence

Often refers to a state of hostility or eagerness to fight, generally in a negative or formal context. Used in situations of conflict or war.

  • The belligerence between the two countries made peace negotiations difficult
  • His belligerence in meetings created a toxic work environment
combativeness

Indicates a readiness to fight or argue, highlighting a confrontational nature. Can be used both in personal disputes and competitive situations.

  • Her combativeness during debates made her a strong, though sometimes unapproachable, leader
  • The team's combativeness on the field ensured their victory

Examples of usage

  • She was taken aback by the aggressiveness of his tone.
  • His aggressiveness on the field earned him a reputation as a fierce competitor.
Context #2 | Noun

personality trait

The tendency to be overly forceful or pushy in achieving one's goals.

Synonyms

assertiveness, determination, drive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
aggressiveness

Typically used in situations where someone is overly forceful, hostile, or combative. Has a negative connotation.

  • His aggressiveness in meetings often makes others uncomfortable
  • The team's aggressiveness on the field led to several penalties
assertiveness

Used when someone confidently and reasonably states their opinions or desires without being aggressive or passive. Neutral or positive connotation.

  • Her assertiveness in negotiations secured a better deal for the company
  • Learning assertiveness can help you express your needs clearly
determination

Refers to someone who shows strong resolve and commitment to achieving their goals, often in the face of difficulty. Positive connotation.

  • His determination to overcome obstacles inspired everyone
  • She showed great determination in finishing the marathon
drive

Describes someone who has a strong motivation and energy to pursue goals or achieve success. Positive connotation.

  • Her drive to succeed in her career is remarkable
  • The company values employees with strong drive and ambition

Examples of usage

  • Her aggressiveness in negotiations often led to successful deals.
  • His aggressiveness in pursuing his career sometimes alienated his colleagues.

Translations

Translations of the word "aggressiveness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 agressividade

🇮🇳 आक्रामकता

🇩🇪 Aggressivität

🇮🇩 agresivitas

🇺🇦 агресивність

🇵🇱 agresywność

🇯🇵 攻撃性 (こうげきせい)

🇫🇷 agressivité

🇪🇸 agresividad

🇹🇷 saldırganlık

🇰🇷 공격성 (gong-gyeogseong)

🇸🇦 عدوانية

🇨🇿 agresivita

🇸🇰 agresivita

🇨🇳 攻击性 (gōngjī xìng)

🇸🇮 agresivnost

🇮🇸 árásargirni

🇰🇿 агрессивтілік

🇬🇪 აგრესიულობა

🇦🇿 aqressivlik

🇲🇽 agresividad

Etymology

The word 'aggressiveness' originated from the Latin word 'aggress-' which means 'to attack'. The term evolved over time to describe the quality of being aggressive or assertive. Aggressiveness can be seen as a trait that can be both beneficial and detrimental depending on the context in which it is displayed.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,393, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.