a hostile attitude

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a hostile attitude" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's negative or aggressive demeanor towards others. Example: "Her hostile attitude during the meeting made it difficult for the team to collaborate effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

We take a hostile attitude to personalised infection.

The Guardian

They refused to recognise the legitimacy of the state and maintained a hostile attitude towards the establishment.

Independent

There are countries that adopt a hostile attitude towards the Syrian government, especially France and the UK.

The Guardian

Indeed, many people at the blast site today demonstrated a hostile attitude toward Israel and the Israeli tourists who filled the Paradise Hotel.

The New York Times

The women displayed a hostile attitude, one US official said, which was "not overly surprising considering that we had killed their husband or father".

The Guardian

While it is uncertain exactly when she closed down her company, a major reason was surely her move abroad, along with a hostile attitude towards female professionals that was still prevalent at the time.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Macalester Bell (2013a, b) argues for a "hostile attitudes" account of blame that includes the attitude of contempt as a blaming attitude.

SEP

Zuma has adopted a more hostile attitude towards Mugabe, saying that "the region cannot afford a deepening crisis in Zimbabwe".

The Guardian

Xenophon adopts a similarly hostile attitude in the early parts of his work, but apparently had a change of heart during the chronological break in composition that divides the second book of the Hellenica; his portrayal of Theramenes during the reign of the Thirty Tyrants is altogether more favorable than that of his earlier years.

Wikipedia

According to a study carried out by the social-affairs ministry last year, only 5% of Spaniards have a "markedly hostile attitude to foreigners".

The Economist

While post-industrial Britain is defined by "a more hostile attitude to asset wealth; stronger local identities – which become fractious where the labour market is globalised".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing group dynamics or international relations, use "a hostile attitude" to pinpoint specific actions or policies causing tension.

Common error

While "a hostile attitude" effectively conveys negativity, overuse can make writing seem repetitive. Vary your language with alternatives like "aggressive stance" or "antagonistic perspective" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a hostile attitude" functions as a noun phrase describing a negative disposition. Ludwig's examples show it modifies subjects, indicating a stance or behavior toward something or someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound way to express negativity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

25%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a hostile attitude" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a negative and antagonistic disposition. As supported by Ludwig, it functions as a noun phrase, predominantly in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While effective, avoid overuse by incorporating synonyms such as "aggressive stance" or "antagonistic perspective". When writing, use "a hostile attitude" to identify specific actions or policies that contribute to tension. By understanding its function and potential pitfalls, you can use it effectively and avoid common errors in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a belligerent demeanor

Emphasizes an aggressive and combative outward behavior.

an aggressive stance

Highlights a forceful and confrontational position.

a confrontational approach

Focuses on an approach that is likely to provoke conflict.

a negative disposition

Indicates an inherent tendency towards pessimism and unfriendliness.

an antagonistic perspective

Suggests a viewpoint characterized by opposition and dislike.

a resentful outlook

Implies bitterness and indignation due to perceived unfairness.

a combative manner

Highlights a style of interaction marked by readiness to argue.

an unfriendly bearing

Refers to a general presentation that lacks warmth or sociability.

a cynical viewpoint

Suggests a distrustful and pessimistic perspective on others' motives.

an embittered outlook

Indicates a state of prolonged disappointment or resentment.

FAQs

How can I use "a hostile attitude" in a sentence?

You can use "a hostile attitude" to describe someone's behavior or stance. For instance, "The company adopted "a hostile attitude" towards the new regulations."

What are some synonyms for "a hostile attitude"?

Alternatives include "a belligerent demeanor", "an aggressive stance", or "a confrontational approach", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to describe someone as having "a hostile attitude" or being "hostile"?

Both are correct, but "a hostile attitude" describes a specific behavior or stance, while "hostile" as an adjective describes someone's general nature. The choice depends on the context.

What is the difference between "a negative attitude" and "a hostile attitude"?

"A negative attitude" implies general pessimism or negativity, while "a hostile attitude" suggests active opposition, aggression, or antagonism. Therefore, "a hostile attitude" is a more intense and confrontational form of negativity compared to a simply negative one.