Synonyms for “belligerent” include “aggressive”, “hostile”, and “combative”.
“Aggressive” implies a readiness to attack or confront. For example, “The dog was aggressive towards strangers.” It suggests a forceful and sometimes unprovoked approach. When someone is belligerent, they often display aggressive behavior, perhaps by making threats or initiating conflicts.
“Hostile” emphasizes a feeling of opposition or enmity. For instance, “The two countries have a hostile relationship.” It implies a deep-seated animosity and a lack of cooperation. A belligerent person can be seen as hostile, as they are likely to be unfriendly and antagonistic towards others.
“Combative” suggests a readiness to engage in a fight or argument. For example, “The politician was combative during the debate.” It implies a willingness to battle and defend one’s position. Belligerent individuals are often combative, as they are eager to engage in disputes and show their dominance.
In conclusion, these synonyms for “belligerent” all describe a state of being inclined towards conflict or aggression. Whether it’s the forceful nature of “aggressive”, the enmity of “hostile”, or the readiness to fight of “combative”, they all capture the essence of belligerence.