Belligerence

Belligerence is a hostile and aggressive attitude, behavior, or inclination to fight. It manifests as a readiness to engage in conflict, often characterized by animosity, a combative spirit, and a lack of cooperation. This combative state can be expressed verbally through insults, threats, or demands, or physically through aggressive posturing or direct violence. Belligerence stems from a variety of factors, including anger, insecurity, perceived threats, or ideological differences. It creates a tense and volatile environment, often hindering communication and leading to escalation of conflict.

Belligerence meaning with examples

• The politician's Belligerence during the debate was palpable; he constantly interrupted his opponent and resorted to personal attacks, revealing a lack of willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and creating a hostile atmosphere in the room. His aggressive tone alienated many potential supporters.
• After the traffic altercation, the driver's Belligerence escalated when the other driver tried to apologize; shouting obscenities and making threatening gestures indicated his immediate impulse was towards confrontation rather than resolving the situation peacefully, highlighting his deep-seated anger.
• The children's persistent Belligerence in the playground, characterized by pushing, name-calling, and refusal to share toys, ultimately led to a confrontation that required the intervention of the school monitors, demonstrating an ongoing pattern of aggressive conduct.
• Despite efforts at diplomacy, the nation’s initial Belligerence, expressed through military build-up and inflammatory rhetoric, made peaceful negotiations increasingly difficult, signaling that it sought conflict, not compromise, further endangering stability.
• Her Belligerence, stemming from a sense of betrayal, caused her to lash out at her friends and family, employing hurtful words and isolating herself, her confrontational nature stemming from a lack of emotional resilience to the difficult situation.