ENGLISH
REFERENCE

aggression

n. uncountable
C1 Advanced Oxford US //əˈɡɹɛʃən// UK //ɐɡɹˈɛʃən// ag·gres·sion

n. angry or violent behavior that is intended to hurt someone or something. It can also mean being very forceful when trying to win or succeed.

n. hostile or destructive behavior or attitudes, often manifesting as a physical or verbal attack. In a competitive context, it refers to a forceful or assertive approach intended to dominate.


SIMPLE

The dog showed aggression by growling at the stranger.

CONTEXTUAL

The coach praised the team's aggression on the field, noting that their high energy forced the opponents into making mistakes.

COMPLEX

Psychologists distinguish between proactive aggression, which is calculated and goal-oriented, and reactive aggression, which occurs as an impulsive emotional response to a perceived threat or provocation.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle French aggression, from Latin aggressio, from aggressus, past participle of aggredior (“to approach, address, attack”).

Usage

Commonly paired with the verbs 'show', 'display', or 'demonstrate'.

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