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hostile
/ˈhɒstaɪl/
very unfriendly or aggressive
The manager's hostile tone made the meeting very uncomfortable.
The manager spoke in a way that showed strong unfriendliness, making the meeting unpleasant.
formal
showing strong opposition or unfriendliness; antagonistic
The company faced hostile takeover attempts from competitors.
The company was targeted by competitors who wanted to take control against the wishes of its management.
She gave him a hostile look when he interrupted her speech.
Her facial expression clearly showed anger and unfriendliness toward him.
Often used to describe people, environments, or situations that are actively opposed or threatening.
military/technical
relating to an enemy or warfare; belonging to an opposing military force
The soldiers advanced through hostile territory.
The soldiers moved through land controlled by enemy forces.
In military contexts, 'hostile' refers to actions, forces, or environments associated with an enemy.
Collocations
hostile environmenta place or situation perceived as threatening or unwelcominghostile takeovera corporate acquisition attempted against the wishes of the target company's managementhostile witnessa witness who is unfriendly or uncooperative in court
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'host'
‘Hostile’ and ‘host’ are related etymologically but have opposite meanings. ‘Host’ (noun) can mean a person who receives guests or a large group, while ‘hostile’ always conveys negativity. Remember: ‘hostile’ = enemy-like.
Gold Rule
Use ‘hostile’ for active opposition
Use ‘hostile’ only when there is clear unfriendliness, aggression, or opposition. Do not use it for simple dislike or indifference.
Word Origin
From Latin *hostilis* ‘of an enemy’, from *hostis* ‘enemy’. Entered English in the 16th century via Old French *hostile*.
Usage Notes
‘Hostile’ can describe both people and situations. In legal or corporate contexts, it often implies intentional opposition. Avoid using it to describe mild dislike—it suggests strong negative feelings or active aggression.
Word Breakdown
host-
enemy or stranger
root-ile
suffix forming adjectives with the sense ‘relating to’
suffixEnglish Dictionary