hostile
Definitions
Unfriendly, antagonistic, or showing strong opposition
敌对的；不友好的；充满敌意的
Relating to or belonging to an enemy in war
敌方的；敌军的
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom Latin hostis ('enemy') + -ile ('relating to') = 'belonging to an enemy.' This is the dark branch of the family: the same stranger who, if welcomed, becomes a guest (hospes), but if met with suspicion, becomes the enemy (hostis). hostile is the adjective of that rejection.
Root hospit still carries 16 more wordsUsage Guide
Pronunciation differs by region: British /ˈhɒstaɪl/ rhymes the ending with 'mile,' while American /ˈhɑːstəl/ often reduces it to 'hostl' — which makes it sound almost like 'hostel.' Note 'hostile to/toward' (be hostile to the idea), not 'hostile against.'
Example Sentences
- 1.
The audience grew hostile when the speaker dodged every question.
- 2.
The board rejected the hostile takeover bid.
- 3.
The troops advanced cautiously through hostile territory.
- 4.
She gave him a hostile stare and walked out.
Easily Confused
hostile vs hostel — identical but for one letter, and in American pronunciation nearly homophones. hostile (adj.) means unfriendly/antagonistic; hostel (n.) is a cheap place to sleep. Feeling → hostile; a building → hostel.
Synonym Comparison
- hostile — actively antagonistic, ready to attack or oppose: a hostile crowd
- unfriendly — simply not warm; milder than hostile
- aggressive — pushing forward with force, may not be personal
- antagonistic — opposed and combative, often in argument
- belligerent — eager to fight, openly warlike