a hostile manner

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a hostile manner" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's behavior or attitude that is aggressive, unfriendly, or antagonistic. Example: "During the meeting, she spoke in a hostile manner, making it difficult for anyone to express their opinions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

People who act in a hostile manner or display hostile intent.

The New Yorker

In one case, a passenger sprayed perfume at a flight attendant "in a hostile manner," the report said.

The New York Times

"For example, blocking the footpath, causing patients to feel fearful to proceed, acting in a hostile manner.

The Guardian

When you put only one offer on the table at a time, if it's turned down (perhaps in a hostile manner), you learn very little.

Harvard University

"Fire and fury like the world has never seen," as Trump promised to inflict on North Korea last month if the country acted in a hostile manner?

The New Yorker

Generally, soldiers in Iraq are trained to use force against what are known as "conduct-based targets": people who act in a hostile manner or display hostile intent.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

In another case, a father regretted impulsively telling his children in "a real hostile manner".

AIDS and Behavior

Trump said Curiel had shown "bias" and treated him in a "very hostile manner" and that his side should have won a summary judgment in the case years ago.

Los Angeles Times

The Attic orator Lysias deals with him at length in several of his speeches, albeit in a very hostile manner.

Wikipedia

She changed her request to a bagel sandwich with ham, and said staffer replied in an equally hostile manner that she could only have bacon.

Huffington Post

"The nightmare scenario that I want to see avoided is what I saw happen to a student I represented in 2009 who was outed as HIV positive in an extremely hostile manner," he said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interactions, use "a hostile manner" to clearly convey aggressive or unfriendly behavior, ensuring the context supports such strong language. This adds clarity and impact to your narrative.

Common error

Avoid using "a hostile manner" in highly formal or professional settings where more nuanced language might be appropriate. Consider milder alternatives like "uncooperative" or "antagonistic" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a hostile manner" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed. Ludwig shows this phrase in various contexts to indicate the way in which someone behaves or interacts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

22%

Science

14%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a hostile manner" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe aggressive or unfriendly behavior. Ludwig indicates that it is commonly found in News & Media, Wiki, and Scientific contexts. When writing, ensure the context supports the strength of this phrase, and consider more nuanced alternatives in formal settings. While "a hostile manner" effectively conveys animosity, remember to tailor your language to suit your audience and the overall tone of your writing. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an aggressive approach

Focuses on the proactive and forceful nature of the behavior.

an unfriendly demeanor

Emphasizes the lack of warmth and approachability in someone's behavior.

an antagonistic attitude

Highlights the opposition and conflict inherent in the behavior.

a belligerent way

Suggests a readiness to fight or argue.

a confrontational style

Focuses on the direct and often aggressive nature of the interaction.

a combative approach

Implies a willingness to engage in conflict.

an offensive method

Highlights the unpleasant and potentially harmful nature of the behavior.

a malicious way

Focuses on the intent to cause harm or suffering.

a truculent attitude

Suggests a stubbornly defiant and aggressive behavior.

an inimical fashion

Indicates a behavior that is harmful and unfriendly.

FAQs

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

You can use "a hostile manner" to describe someone's behavior or attitude, such as: "The suspect responded to the officer in "a hostile manner" when questioned." or "The company reacted in "a hostile manner" to the proposed regulations".

What are some alternatives to "a hostile manner"?

Alternatives include "an aggressive approach", "an unfriendly demeanor", or "an antagonistic attitude", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

While grammatically correct, "a hostile manner" can be quite strong. In formal writing, consider whether a more nuanced term like "uncooperative" or "antagonistic" might be more suitable to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "a hostile manner" and "an aggressive manner"?

"A hostile manner" implies unfriendliness and antagonism, while "an aggressive manner" focuses more on forceful and proactive behavior. While similar, "an aggressive manner" emphasizes the active and potentially forceful nature, whereas "a hostile manner" highlights the underlying animosity.