a hostile climate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a hostile climate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an environment or situation that is unfriendly, unwelcoming, or adverse, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The company faced a hostile climate for innovation, making it difficult to implement new ideas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce's hostility to climate change legislation is making for something of a hostile climate for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Huffington Post

Miliband would learn the hard way that British politics can be a hostile climate for intellectualism.

The Guardian

"Ms. Shakofsky steadfastly advocated for her students' academic freedom despite a hostile climate," the nomination said.

The New York Times

He has, after all, been accused by media watchdogs of creating a hostile climate for journalists.

The Guardian

"Our tax policies have created an environment that is a hostile climate for business".

The New York Times

The bombing "will create a hostile climate for free speech and freedom of expression," said Kwamchetsi Makokha, a columnist for The Daily Nation, a leading newspaper in Kenya.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

In order to found an alternative colony in a less hostile climate further south, he requested "a precinct" in Virginia, where he could grow tobacco.

Wikipedia

The education spokesman, Brian Monteith, said: "It is a brave decision in a politically hostile climate".

The Guardian

Yale underwent a review by the U.S. Department of Education in 2011 after a group of students complained of a "sexually hostile climate" on campus.

Huffington Post

The bill, the Securing America's Future and Environment (SAFE) Act, outlines the countless benefits that healthy natural resources provide to our country's safety, economy and well being, and offers an common-sense approach to help them adapt to a more hostile climate.

Huffington Post

Obama already faces low approval among GOP identifiers and a similarly hostile climate in Congress.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a hostile climate" to describe a non-physical environment, ensure the context clearly establishes what is causing the hostility (e.g., policies, attitudes, competition).

Common error

Avoid using "a hostile climate" for mildly negative situations; reserve it for scenarios with significant antagonism or adversity. If the situation is merely challenging or difficult, consider using phrases like "a tough environment" or "a demanding situation" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a hostile climate" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "hostile" is an adjective modifying the noun "climate". It is used to describe a situation or environment characterized by opposition, antagonism, or unfavorable conditions. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable status in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

12%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a hostile climate" is a common and correct phrase used to describe situations marked by strong opposition or adversity. As Ludwig confirms, it is suitable for formal writing and is frequently found in news, business, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly indicates the source and nature of the hostility. Consider related phrases like "an unfriendly environment" or ""a challenging environment"" to convey similar but slightly different meanings. The phrase is particularly prevalent in News & Media sources, denoting its relevance in discussing current events and societal issues.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unfriendly atmosphere

Emphasizes the lack of warmth and welcoming nature.

a challenging environment

Highlights the difficulties and obstacles present.

an adverse situation

Focuses on the negative and unfavorable conditions.

a difficult setting

Underscores the problematic circumstances.

a negative atmosphere

Highlights the pessimistic and discouraging tone.

a combative atmosphere

Conveys a sense of active conflict and opposition.

an unwelcoming environment

Stresses the lack of hospitality and acceptance.

a tense situation

Focuses on the strained and uneasy conditions.

a fraught environment

Emphasizes the anxiety and stress associated with the setting.

a repressive atmosphere

Highlights the oppressive and controlling nature.

FAQs

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

You can use "a hostile climate" to describe environments or situations marked by strong opposition or adversity. For example: "The company struggled to innovate in "a hostile climate" of regulatory scrutiny".

What's the difference between "a hostile climate" and "a challenging environment"?

"A hostile climate" implies active opposition and antagonism, while ""a challenging environment"" suggests difficulties that require effort and resilience, but not necessarily active conflict.

What are some synonyms for "a hostile climate"?

Synonyms for "a hostile climate" include "an unfriendly environment", "a difficult situation", or "a negative atmosphere", depending on the specific nuances you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a hostile climate" in formal writing?

Yes, "a hostile climate" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when describing political, economic, or social environments. The phrase is commonly found in news reports, academic papers, and business documents.