warlike

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'warlike' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing someone or something that resembles warfare in terms of its disposition, activities, or appearance. Example sentence: "The façade of the fortress gave off a warlike impression, with its large stone walls and raised battlements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Consecutive memorial directors have referred to the institution's 1980 Act, stipulating that they must tell the story of "wars and war-like operations in which Australians have been on active service, including the events leading up to, and the aftermath of, such wars and warlike operations".

The Guardian

They suggest that although such people are far from peaceful they are also far from warlike.

The Economist

Only the latter could be described as war.One of the 21 groups was extremely warlike.

The Economist

So far, though, Mr Ellwood's own warlike attempts have fallen flat.

The Economist

But "Somerset people are not warlike," he said once, his soft voice still carrying the burr of the place.

The Economist

Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg, who became defence minister in October, alluded early on to Afghanistan's "warlike conditions".

The Economist

Like all Pakistani soldiers, General Musharraf has warlike instincts towards India, the country's giant, nuclear-armed neighbour.

The Economist

The state monopolised the staples, things like rice and maize, but peasants were allowed to trade cabbages, potatoes, ginseng and whatever else they were able to grow for themselves.North Korea under Kim Il Sung was a repressive, warlike state with a personality cult to rival Stalin's or Mao's, but its people were never subjected to a peacetime famine.

The Economist

Earlier this month, Mr Hoon was promised a small increase by the Treasury, but also instructed to curb his ministry's existing expenditure by £2.8 billion ($5.2 billion) over the next three years.That's not bad by miserly European standards but sits oddly with the British government's warlike habits.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Having spouted such cold-warlike rhetoric, China's leaders have left themselves less room for manoeuvre in an unexpected tight spot than some of them might now wish.All the more so at a time when China's elderly bosses are trying to parcel out influence among their protégés ahead of next year's party congress, when power is to be passed to some less antique officials.

The Economist

The more-warlike Minqua, or Susquehannock, living to the west, frequently attacked the Lenape.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a nation or political entity, use "warlike" to suggest a tendency towards military conflict and aggression. For example, "The nation's history is marked by warlike expansions and conquests."

Common error

Avoid using "warlike" to describe simple disagreements or debates. "Warlike" implies a significant inclination or engagement in armed conflict, not just strong disagreement.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "warlike" primarily functions to describe a noun, indicating a tendency toward war or aggression. Ludwig AI confirms its valid use in English, highlighting its ability to portray hostility and a martial spirit. For instance, one might describe a nation as having "warlike" tendencies based on its history.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Encyclopedias

22%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "warlike" is used to describe a tendency toward war or aggression. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and commonly used in written English, and it often appears in news, encyclopedias, and scientific texts. It is grammatically sound and serves to characterize entities inclined to conflict. While synonyms like "belligerent", "militant", and "martial" exist, "warlike" specifically suggests a general inclination towards military engagement rather than immediate hostility. Remember to use "warlike" when accurately portraying a disposition or action strongly associated with war, and avoid overusing it for simple disagreements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

belligerent

Focuses on the aggressive and hostile nature.

militant

Emphasizes a strong commitment to military action or violent methods.

martial

Relates to the armed forces or military life.

combative

Highlights the readiness and eagerness to fight.

aggressive

Indicates a forceful and assertive approach, often in a hostile manner.

hostile

Focuses on unfriendly and antagonistic behavior.

bellicose

Describes someone favoring or inclined to start quarrels or wars.

pugnacious

Highlights a tendency to fight or be argumentative.

truculent

Indicates a fierce, cruel, or savagely brutal attitude.

antagonistic

Emphasizes active opposition or hostility.

FAQs

How can I use "warlike" in a sentence?

You can use "warlike" to describe someone or something inclined to or characterized by war or aggression. For example, "The tribe was known for its warlike culture" or "The leader adopted a warlike stance during the negotiations."

What's the difference between "warlike" and "belligerent"?

"Warlike" suggests a general tendency towards war or military action, while "belligerent" implies a more immediate and aggressive hostility. Someone described as "warlike" may have a history of conflicts, whereas a "belligerent" person is actively displaying aggression.

What are some synonyms for "warlike"?

Synonyms for "warlike" include "martial", "militant", "bellicose", and "aggressive". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "warlike" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "warlike" when describing a disposition, culture, or action that strongly suggests an inclination or involvement in war or armed conflict. Ensure that the context supports this strong connotation, as it's a powerful term.