Territoriality: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in contexts discussing animal or human behaviors related to the defense of an area. This can be in academic or scientific discussions.

• The lion's territoriality ensures that it has enough resources for its pride
• Territoriality is a key factor in many species' survival strategies

Commonly used to describe someone’s behavioral response to criticism or perceived threats, often in everyday conversations or psychological discussions. It has a negative connotation.

• His defensiveness was apparent during the meeting when his ideas were questioned
• Being defensive all the time can strain relationships

Applied to describe a behavior or attitude intended to safeguard or care for someone or something, often used in family or personal relationship contexts.

• A mother's protectiveness over her children is natural
• His protectiveness towards his younger sister was evident

Refers specifically to actions taken by animals or humans to mark or defend a territory; often used in wildlife or ethology studies.

• Territorial behavior in birds includes singing and patrolling their boundaries
• The dog's territorial behavior involves barking at strangers near its home

Used in biological or psychological contexts to describe the instinct or behavior of defending a specific area.

• Wolves exhibit territoriality by marking their territory with scent
• His territoriality was apparent when he refused to share his office space

Often used in social, psychological, or interpersonal contexts to describe the process of establishing limits on behavior and interaction.

• In a healthy relationship, boundary setting is crucial for mutual respect
• She practiced boundary setting by clearly stating her work hours

Typically used to describe the action of physically or metaphorically protecting one's immediate surroundings.

• The dog is very good at space guarding and will bark at strangers approaching the house
• He was space guarding his desk by keeping personal items all over it

Describes a way of thinking that prioritizes the control and defense of one's own domain, whether in business, personal relationships, or other contexts.

• His territorial mindset made him a tough competitor in the market
• She displayed a territorial mindset when she objected to new team members joining her project