# combative

/ˌkɑmˈbæˌtɪv/ (US) · /kˈɒmbətˌɪv/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/combative
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

having a tendency to argue or fight. You use this to describe someone who is always ready to challenge others or disagree with them.

For teachers: characterised by a tendency to argue, fight, or challenge others. Often used to describe a person's personality or a specific style of debate.

## Examples

- He has a combative nature and rarely agrees with anyone.
- The politician's combative style made it difficult for her to find common ground with the opposition during the debate.
- The legal team adopted a combative approach to the settlement, refusing to compromise on any of the core terms until the final hour of the trial.

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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.