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hostilities
/hɒˈstɪlɪtiz/
acts of war or conflict
The ceasefire ended when hostilities resumed between the two countries.
The temporary peace agreement broke down, leading to renewed acts of war.
formal
acts of war or armed conflict between opposing groups.
The treaty was signed to prevent further hostilities.
The agreement aimed to stop additional acts of war.
Diplomatic efforts failed, and hostilities broke out within weeks.
Negotiations did not succeed, resulting in armed conflict soon after.
Often used in legal, political, or historical contexts to describe warfare or aggression.
Collocations
armed hostilitiesacts of war involving weaponsresume hostilitiesto restart acts of warcease hostilitiesto end acts of war
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'hostility'
'Hostility' (singular) refers to unfriendly or aggressive feelings, while 'hostilities' (plural) specifically refers to acts of war or armed conflict. Example: 'His hostility toward the policy was clear, but he did not engage in hostilities.'
Gold Rule
When to use 'hostilities'
Use 'hostilities' when referring to organized acts of war or conflict between groups, especially in formal or legal contexts. Avoid using it for individual acts of aggression or personal enmity.
Word Origin
From Old French *hostilité* (hostility), derived from Latin *hostilis* (of an enemy), from *hostis* (enemy). The word entered English in the 15th century with the sense of 'enmity' and later developed the specific meaning of 'acts of war'.
Usage Notes
Hostilities is a plural noun that typically refers to collective acts of war or conflict rather than individual acts of aggression. It is often used in formal or legal contexts, such as treaties or ceasefire agreements.
Word Breakdown
host-
from Latin *hostis* (enemy)
root-ility
suffix forming abstract nouns from adjectives
suffixEnglish Dictionary