belligerence (C1)

noun

Pronunciation: /bəˈlɪdʒərəns/

Definition

Aggressive or warlike behavior; a hostile or defiant attitude.

Examples

• His belligerence in the debate made it difficult to find common ground.

• The child's belligerence stemmed from feeling misunderstood by his parents.

• Diplomats worked to de-escalate the rising belligerence between the two nations.

Synonyms of belligerence

Words with a similar meaning to belligerence:

• aggression
• hostility
• antagonism
• pugnacity

Antonyms of belligerence

Words with the opposite meaning to belligerence:

• peace
• conciliation
• amity

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