hostilities
- 01 C1 Advanced
fighting between two countries or groups during a war.
acts of overt warfare or armed conflict between opposing military forces.
Simple“The two countries agreed to end hostilities and begin peace talks.”
In context“Hostilities broke out along the border despite months of diplomatic efforts to maintain the fragile ceasefire.”
UsageAlways used in the plural form when referring to military conflict.
Teacher's tipLearners should note that while 'hostility' (singular) refers to a feeling of hatred, 'hostilities' (plural) almost always refers to physical fighting in a war.
- 02 C1 Advanced
plural form of hostility; strong feelings of not liking someone or being unfriendly.
the pluralized expression of deep-seated ill will, antagonism, or unfriendliness.
Simple“It was hard to work in an office where personal hostilities were so common.”
In context“The mediator spent hours addressing the long-standing hostilities between the two rival families before they could discuss the property dispute.”
UsageUsed as the plural of the abstract noun 'hostility'.
Teacher's tipIn this sense, the word describes multiple instances or types of unfriendly feelings rather than physical combat.
SynonymsAntonyms
“Hostilities are rising between Iran-backed Houthis and Yemen's internationally recognised government.”
“Some 6,000 crew members and 500 vessels are still believed to be trapped, almost six months since months since hostilities began, with around 2,900 individuals evacuated to date .”