Pronunciation

/ˈhɒstəl/

Definitions

• Adjective: (adj) Having a hostile attitude or disposition; showing enmity or unfriendliness. For example: “The tribes maintained a hostile relationship with each other.”
  • “He received a hostile reception from his former colleagues.”
• Noun: (n) A person or group that is unfriendly, antagonistic, or敌对的. For example: “The enemy was seen as the main hostile force in the region.”
  • “The soldiers were trained to identify and neutralize potential hostiles.”

Phrases

• “Hostile takeover” refers to the acquisition of one company by another against the wishes of the management or shareholders of the target company.
• “Hostile environment” describes a situation where conditions are adverse or unwelcoming, often used in legal contexts to describe workplace harassment.
• “Hostile witness” is a legal term for a witness who, although called by one party, gives testimony that is harmful to that party’s case.

Example Sentences

• Adjective: “The suspect exhibited hostile behavior during questioning.”
• Noun: “Security forces were on high alert for any signs of hostiles infiltrating the area.”

Synonyms

• Adversarial
• Unfriendly
• Antagonistic
• Enemy
• Opponent
• Hostile force
• Aggressive
• Inimical
• Belligerent
• Uncooperative