The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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belligerent

adjective

/bɪˈlɪdʒ(ə)rənt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of belligerent

Aggressive, confrontational, and quick to to argue or fight.
"He is a beligerant young man who often gets into scuffles in bars."

Detailed meaning of belligerent

For example, a group of people who are constantly picking fights or causing problems might be described as being belligerent. A nation that is constantly threatening or engaging in military action might also be seen as being belligerent. The term is often used to describe a person or group that is actively engaged in a war or conflict, or that is behaving in a way that is likely to lead to a war or conflict.

Example sentences containing belligerent

1. His belligerent attitude escalated the argument quickly.
2. The belligerent nation threatened neighboring countries with military action.
3. The manager's belligerent behavior towards employees created a hostile work environment.
4. Despite attempts at diplomacy, the negotiations remained belligerent on both sides.
5. The boxer entered the ring with a belligerent expression, ready to fight.
6. Her belligerent tone during the meeting alienated her colleagues.

History and etymology of belligerent

The adjective 'belligerent' has its roots in Latin and can be traced back to the Latin word 'bellum,' which means 'war' or 'conflict.' From 'bellum,' the Latin term 'belligerans' emerged, combining 'bellum' with 'gerere,' meaning 'to wage' or 'to carry on.' This term signified someone engaged in war or conflict. Over time, 'belligerent' evolved in English to describe individuals or entities that display aggressive, confrontational behavior and are quick to argue or fight. The connection to its Latin origins is evident, as 'belligerent' characterizes a disposition inclined toward conflict or hostility, much like those actively engaged in warfare.

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Further usage examples of belligerent

1. The belligerent driver honked aggressively at the car in front of him.
2. The belligerent customer shouted at the staff, causing a scene in the restaurant.
3. The cat adopted a belligerent stance when confronted by the dog.
4. The belligerent protestors clashed with law enforcement, leading to arrests.
5. The politician's belligerent rhetoric fueled tensions between the two parties.
6. The belligerent response from the company's spokesperson only worsened the public relations crisis.
7. The coach reprimanded the player for his belligerent behavior towards the referee.
8. The belligerent exchange of words in the courtroom prompted the judge to intervene.
9. The teacher addressed the belligerent students, urging them to treat each other respectfully.
10. The belligerent remarks from the speaker incited a heated debate among the audience.
11. Despite her normally calm demeanor, she became unexpectedly belligerent during the argument.
12. The belligerent atmosphere at the protest eventually led to clashes with law enforcement.
13. The belligerent tone of the email was unnecessary and unprofessional.
14. The belligerent rivalry between the two sports teams added intensity to the match.