hostile

Everyday

1. Unfriendly and angry, ready to argue or fight. tree →
2. Belonging to an enemy, as in «hostile army». tree →
3. (of a place or conditions) Very harsh and difficult to live in, as in «a hostile desert». tree →

In the lessons

In stories it warns the reader of danger: «The crowd turned hostile.» In history: hostile tribes, hostile forces. In science and geography: «Antarctica is a hostile place for most animals.» Phrases: hostile to, hostile environment, hostile takeover (business).

Examples

• The guard dog gave us a hostile growl. tree →
• The new boy felt the class was hostile at first. tree →
• Deserts are hostile places with little water. tree →
• The ship sailed into hostile waters. tree →
• She gave a hostile look when I took her seat. tree →
• Space is a hostile environment for humans. tree →
• He saw hostile warriors, in colored dresses and glittering armor, with spear and halberd, pitching their tents, and anon striking them. tree →

Note

Said «HOS-tile» (UK) or «HOS-tl» (USA). Noun: hostility. Opposite: friendly, welcoming. Not the same as «hostel» (a cheap place to stay).