ENGLISH
REFERENCE

animosity

n. C / U
C1 Advanced US //ˌænəˈmɑsəti// UK //ˌænɪmˈɒsɪti// an·i·mos·i·ty

n. a strong feeling of dislike or anger toward someone. It usually happens because of a past argument or a long history of not getting along.

n. a state of strong hostility or active ill will. Often implies a long-standing or deep-seated resentment between parties.


SIMPLE

There is no animosity between the two former rivals.

CONTEXTUAL

The long legal battle created a great deal of animosity between the two families, making any future reconciliation unlikely.

COMPLEX

Despite their professional disagreements, the researchers maintained a civil relationship, ensuring that personal animosity did not cloud the objective evaluation of their shared data.

Synonyms
Origin

From French animosité, from Latin animositas (“courage, spirit, vehemence”), from animosus, from animus (“courage, spirit, mind”); see animose, animate.

Usage

Uncountable when referring to the general feeling; countable when referring to specific instances or acts of hostility.

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