ENGLISH
REFERENCE

aggressively

adv. manner
B2 Upper Intermediate US //əˈɡɹɛsɪvɫi// UK //ɐɡɹˈɛsɪvli// ag·gres·sive·ly

adv. doing something in a very strong, forceful, or angry way. You use this when someone is ready to fight or is working very hard to win.

adv. in a manner characterized by forceful energy, hostility, or a strong desire to compete. Often describes physical actions, business strategies, or interpersonal communication.


SIMPLE

The dog barked aggressively at the stranger.

CONTEXTUAL

The tech company is aggressively expanding into new markets to beat its competitors.

COMPLEX

The defense attorney aggressively questioned the witness, attempting to find inconsistencies in the testimony that might create reasonable doubt for the jury.

Synonyms
Origin

From aggressive + -ly.

Usage

Typically follows the verb it modifies or the direct object.

Pitfall

He aggressively is working.He is working aggressively.Adverbs of manner usually follow the verb or the object rather than sitting between the subject and the auxiliary verb.

© 2026 English Reference