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aggressive
/əˈɡrɛsɪv/
forceful and determined
The company took aggressive steps to expand into new markets.
The company acted with determination to grow rapidly.
neutral
Ready to attack or confront; characterized by forcefulness.
The dog became aggressive when strangers approached.
The dog reacted with hostility when strangers came near.
She adopted an aggressive marketing strategy to boost sales.
She pursued a bold and forceful plan to increase revenue.
Can describe behavior, strategies, or actions. Often implies a lack of restraint or caution.
Business
BusinessSports
In business or sports, pursuing goals with boldness and determination.
The startup's aggressive growth plan attracted investors.
The startup's bold expansion strategy drew investor interest.
Common in competitive contexts where assertiveness is valued.
Collocations
aggressive behaviorhostile or violent actionsaggressive strategybold or forceful approachaggressive drivera driver who takes risks or breaks rulesaggressive investmenthigh-risk financial commitment
Pro Tip
Avoiding Misuse
Use 'assertive' instead of 'aggressive' when describing confident but respectful behavior. 'Aggressive' implies potential harm or rudeness.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
In sports or business, 'aggressive' is often positive (e.g., 'aggressive play'). In social settings, it’s usually negative (e.g., 'aggressive tone').
Word Origin
From Latin *aggressivus*, meaning 'inclined to attack,' derived from *aggressus* (past participle of *aggredi*, 'to approach, attack'), from *ad-* ('to') + *gradi* ('to step'). First used in English in the late 18th century.
Usage Notes
While 'aggressive' often has negative connotations (e.g., violence or rudeness), it can also describe positive assertiveness in contexts like business or sports. Avoid using it to describe people unless necessary, as it may sound judgmental.
Word Breakdown
aggress-
to approach or attack
root-ive
tending to
suffixEnglish Dictionary