aggressive
Behaving in a forceful or hostile manner, often showing a readiness to attack or argue. In a professional context, it describes a determined and bold approach to achieving success.
Examples
3 of 5The dog became aggressive when the stranger approached its food bowl.
The dog started acting in a hostile and threatening way toward the stranger.
The government's aggressive foreign policy has led to increased tensions in the region.
The government's forceful and confrontational international strategy caused regional stress.
Whoa, don't get so aggressive! I was just joking about your haircut.
Don't react so angrily; I was only making a joke.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Aggressive starts with 'Aggr-', which sounds like a growl (Grrr!). Think of a growling dog to remember its hostile meaning.
Quick Quiz
The CEO decided on an ____ expansion plan to double the company's size within a year.
Correct!
The correct answer is: aggressive
Examples
The dog became aggressive when the stranger approached its food bowl.
everydayThe dog started acting in a hostile and threatening way toward the stranger.
The government's aggressive foreign policy has led to increased tensions in the region.
formalThe government's forceful and confrontational international strategy caused regional stress.
Whoa, don't get so aggressive! I was just joking about your haircut.
informalDon't react so angrily; I was only making a joke.
Studies suggest that aggressive behavior in children can be influenced by media consumption.
academicResearch indicates that hostile actions in kids might be affected by what they watch.
To dominate the tech industry, the company launched an aggressive marketing campaign.
businessThe firm used a very bold and energetic advertising plan to lead the market.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
passive-aggressive
showing indirect resistance or non-verbal hostility
aggressive growth
rapid and bold expansion of a business or investment
aggressive pricing
setting prices very low to drive out competitors
Often Confused With
Assertive means being confident and direct without being rude; aggressive implies hostility or a lack of respect for others.
Usage Notes
While often negative (meaning 'angry' or 'violent'), this word is used positively in business and sports to mean 'highly competitive' and 'determined to win'.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'aggressive' to mean simply 'energetic.' Be careful, as calling someone aggressive can be seen as an insult in social situations.
Memory Tip
Aggressive starts with 'Aggr-', which sounds like a growl (Grrr!). Think of a growling dog to remember its hostile meaning.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin 'aggressus', meaning 'stepped toward' or 'attacked'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In American business culture, being 'aggressive' is often praised as a sign of a 'go-getter' attitude, whereas in some East Asian cultures, it may be viewed as a lack of harmony.
Quick Quiz
The CEO decided on an ____ expansion plan to double the company's size within a year.
Correct!
The correct answer is: aggressive
Related Grammar Rules
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