Belligerent: meaning, definitions and examples
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belligerent
[ bɪˈlɪdʒərənt ]
in a conflict
Hostile and aggressive in nature; showing a willingness to fight or engage in conflict.
Synonyms
aggressive, bellicose, combative, hostile, pugnacious.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
belligerent |
Mostly used to describe someone who is combative or eager to fight. It can refer to people or nations engaged in war or conflict.
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hostile |
Often used to describe an unfriendly or antagonistic attitude. This can apply to behaviors, environments, or conditions that are threatening or unfriendly.
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aggressive |
Commonly used to describe someone who is forceful, competitive, or quick to attack. It doesn't always imply physical violence and can refer to behavior or attitudes.
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combative |
Best used when describing someone who readily engages in fights or arguments. It suggests a readiness to fight, whether physically or verbally.
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bellicose |
Typically used to describe someone or something that is naturally inclined to start fights or wars. This word has a formal and somewhat literary tone.
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pugnacious |
Frequently used to describe someone who is eager or quick to argue, quarrel, or fight. This term often carries a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The belligerent nations refused to negotiate.
- He adopted a belligerent tone during the argument.
warfare
A nation or person engaged in warfare or conflict, typically as a member of the armed forces.
Synonyms
combatant, fighter, militant, opponent, warring party.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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belligerent |
Used to describe an aggressive or hostile person or nation. This term often carries a negative connotation.
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combatant |
Refers to an individual who actively participates in combat or warfare, typically in a formal or semi-formal military context.
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fighter |
Generally used to describe a person who fights in a physical or metaphorical sense. This term can apply to someone in a boxing ring or someone resisting a difficult situation.
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militant |
Describes someone who is aggressively supportive of a cause, often involving extreme or violent actions. This term often has a negative connotation.
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warring party |
Refers to a group or nation engaged in war or conflict. This term is often used in discussions about large-scale conflicts or wars.
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opponent |
Used to indicate someone who competes against another in a contest, game, or argument. This term is neutral and can be used in various competitive situations.
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Examples of usage
- The belligerents clashed on the battlefield.
- Both belligerents suffered heavy casualties in the war.
Translations
Translations of the word "belligerent" in other languages:
🇵🇹 beligerante
🇮🇳 युद्धप्रिय
🇩🇪 kriegerisch
🇮🇩 berperang
🇺🇦 войовничий
🇵🇱 wojowniczy
🇯🇵 好戦的
🇫🇷 belligérant
🇪🇸 beligerante
🇹🇷 savaşçı
🇰🇷 호전적인
🇸🇦 محارب
🇨🇿 válečný
🇸🇰 vojnový
🇨🇳 好战的
🇸🇮 bojevit
🇮🇸 stríðsmaður
🇰🇿 соғысуға бейім
🇬🇪 მებრძოლი
🇦🇿 döyüşkən
🇲🇽 beligerante
Etymology
The word 'belligerent' originated from the Latin word 'bellum,' meaning war. It was first recorded in English in the mid-16th century. The term has been used to describe individuals, nations, or groups involved in warfare or conflict throughout history. The concept of belligerence has been a central theme in understanding international relations and military strategies.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #12,949, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.
- ...
- 12946 relentless
- 12947 provoking
- 12948 vibrating
- 12949 belligerent
- 12950 aching
- 12951 transcendent
- 12952 indigent
- ...