# aggressively

/əˈɡɹɛsɪvɫi/ (US) · /ɐɡɹˈɛsɪvli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/aggressively
Updated: 2026-05-03

## Definition

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.

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

## Examples

- The dog barked aggressively at the stranger.
- The tech company is aggressively expanding into new markets to beat its competitors.
- The defense attorney aggressively questioned the witness, attempting to find inconsistencies in the testimony that might create reasonable doubt for the jury.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He aggressively is working." but "He is working aggressively." — Adverbs of manner usually follow the verb or the object rather than sitting between the subject and the auxiliary verb.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies or the direct object.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.