Combativeness: meaning, definitions and examples

🥊
Add to dictionary

combativeness

 

[ ˌkɒmbəˈtɪvnəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in a conversation

The quality of being eager to fight or argue; pugnacity.

Synonyms

aggressiveness, belligerence, contentiousness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
combativeness

Similar to the previous entry for combativeness. Indicates a readiness to fight or argue, often observed in competitive or defensive situations.

  • The combativeness of the players was evident during the fierce match
aggressiveness

Denotes a forceful and sometimes negative behavior aimed at dominating or overcoming an opponent. Frequently used in sports or business environments.

  • Her aggressiveness in negotiations often secured the best deals for the company
belligerence

Carries a negative connotation and implies a hostile or warlike attitude. Often used to describe aggressive behavior in conflicts or wars.

  • His belligerence made it difficult to reach a peaceful resolution
contentiousness

Used to describe a tendency to be argumentative or controversial. Often appears in situations where someone frequently disputes or challenges others.

  • The contentiousness of the debate made it difficult to come to an agreement

Examples of usage

  • His combativeness often led to heated debates with his colleagues.
  • Her combativeness made it difficult to have a constructive conversation.
Context #2 | Noun

in a competitive environment

The willingness to engage in conflict or competition; assertiveness.

Synonyms

assertiveness, competitiveness, determination.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
combativeness

This word is best used when referring to a strong and aggressive desire to argue, fight or oppose. Often has a negative connotation and implies confrontational behavior.

  • Her combativeness in meetings often alienated her colleagues.
  • His combativeness made him difficult to work with, as he was always looking for a fight.
competitiveness

Use this word when describing a strong desire to be more successful than others. It can be positive in contexts like sports, business, or academics, where striving to win is necessary.

  • His competitiveness on the soccer field made him a valuable player.
  • A little competitiveness in the workplace can drive team performance.
assertiveness

This word is appropriate when discussing the ability to self-confidently express one's opinions and needs in a clear and respectful manner. It has a positive connotation and is often connected with effective communication.

  • She showed assertiveness during the negotiation, ensuring her needs were met.
  • Assertiveness is a key trait for leaders who must make decisions and give direction.
determination

This word is ideal for describing a firmness of purpose and the resolve to achieve a goal despite obstacles. It has a strong positive connotation and denotes perseverance.

  • Her determination to succeed in medical school was inspiring.
  • With sheer determination, he overcame the challenges and completed the marathon.

Examples of usage

  • Her combativeness in negotiations often resulted in favorable outcomes.
  • The team's combativeness on the field helped them win the championship.

Translations

Translations of the word "combativeness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 combatividade

🇮🇳 लड़ाकूपन

🇩🇪 Kampflust

🇮🇩 kegigihan

🇺🇦 бойовитість

🇵🇱 bojowość

🇯🇵 闘志 (tōshi)

🇫🇷 combativité

🇪🇸 combatividad

🇹🇷 kavgacılık

🇰🇷 전투성 (jeontuseong)

🇸🇦 المقاتلة

🇨🇿 bojechtivost

🇸🇰 bojovnosť

🇨🇳 好斗性 (hàodòuxìng)

🇸🇮 bojnost

🇮🇸 bardagavirkni

🇰🇿 шайқасқұмарлық

🇬🇪 მებრძოლი სულისკვეთება

🇦🇿 döyüşkənlik

🇲🇽 combatividad

Etymology

The word 'combativeness' is derived from the noun 'combat', which comes from the Old French word 'com(b)at' and the Latin word 'combattere', meaning 'to fight together'. The suffix '-iveness' is added to form the quality or state of being eager to fight or argue. The term has been used in English since the early 19th century.

See also: combatant, combatants, combative, combatively, noncombatant.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,867, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.