a hostile tone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a hostile tone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a manner of speaking or writing that is aggressive, unfriendly, or antagonistic. Example: "The email was filled with a hostile tone, making it clear that the sender was upset about the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

And many of these outlets have taken a hostile tone to the Ms Sedrine's commission.

Independent

"The e-mails had a hostile tone to them," the complaint said.

The New York Times

"Natasha said he spoke to her very aggressively, in a hostile tone, and periodically broke into screaming," a colleague, Yekaterina Sokiryanskaya, told the court this month.

The New York Times

He adopted a hostile tone towards overseas interests, tearing up contracts with some foreign utilities firms, and refusing to speak with the US Ambassador to Buenos Aires for almost four years.

Independent

A hostile tone towards private schools, Ms Tuck noted, leaves those who run them feeling "slightly immoral .Although they educate only 7% of the school population (double that in sixth-forms and in London) fee-paying schools have long aroused antipathy.

The Economist

She said, 'Excuse me?' and he said, 'You're only 15, COVER YOURSELF!' in a hostile tone".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

But in Washington, some discussions have taken a more hostile tone as the Justice Department faces scrutiny for not indicting HSBC.

The New York Times

He adopted a fairly hostile tone towards the Lib Dems (see 1.45pm) and rejected the IFS findings, but otherwise I couldn't spot a news line.

The Guardian

She said the Delhi press pack had expected to hear something warmer, and were surprised by what felt like a somewhat hostile tone.

The Guardian

The Chinese have said that they expect Mr. Bush, despite a sometimes hostile tone, to discover the same advantages his predecessors did in cooperating with China.

The New York Times

And now that message has taken a dangerous, hostile tone and the focus is one of the most eloquent and classy candidates for President in some time.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing interactions, use "a hostile tone" to accurately depict the negativity or aggression conveyed by someone's words or manner.

Common error

Be careful not to confuse "a hostile tone" with constructive criticism. Hostility implies an intent to harm or create negativity, whereas criticism aims to improve.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a hostile tone" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the object of a verb (e.g., "adopted a hostile tone") or as a descriptor of communication style, characterizing the manner in which something is expressed. Ludwig AI confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a hostile tone" is a noun phrase used to describe an aggressive, unfriendly, or antagonistic manner of communication. As verified by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and most commonly found in News & Media. While alternatives like "an aggressive tone" or "a confrontational tone" exist, "a hostile tone" specifically emphasizes animosity. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the intent behind the communication and avoid confusing it with constructive criticism. Understanding the context and nuances allows for more precise and impactful writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an aggressive tone

Emphasizes the forceful and assertive nature of the tone.

a confrontational tone

Highlights the argumentative and challenging aspect of the tone.

a belligerent tone

Implies a readiness to fight or argue.

a combative tone

Suggests an eagerness to engage in conflict.

an antagonistic tone

Focuses on the active opposition and dislike conveyed by the tone.

a bitter tone

Highlights the resentment and cynicism present in the tone.

a harsh tone

Emphasizes the severity and unpleasantness of the tone.

a cutting tone

Implies that the tone is intended to hurt or wound.

a scathing tone

Suggests a highly critical and contemptuous tone.

an unfriendly tone

A more general term indicating a lack of warmth or kindness.

FAQs

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

You can use "a hostile tone" to describe someone's manner of speaking or writing, such as: "The letter was written in "a hostile tone", indicating the sender's anger."

What are some alternatives to "a hostile tone"?

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

Is it appropriate to describe a formal document as having "a hostile tone"?

Yes, if the document contains language that is aggressive, unfriendly, or antagonistic, describing it as having "a hostile tone" is appropriate, even in a formal context.

What's the difference between "a hostile tone" and "a critical tone"?

"A hostile tone" implies aggression and animosity, while "a critical tone" suggests an intent to point out flaws or areas for improvement, without necessarily being unfriendly. A critical tone can be constructive; "a hostile tone" is rarely so.