Combative describes someone who is eager or inclined to fight or argue. It suggests a readiness to engage in conflict, whether physical or verbal, and often implies an aggressive or antagonistic attitude. A combative person is not necessarily violent but is likely to challenge others, defend their positions fiercely, and resist compromise. This behavior can stem from insecurity, a desire for control, or simply a naturally assertive personality. The term can also describe situations characterized by rivalry and contention.
Combative meaning with examples
- The lawyer adopted a combative stance in the courtroom, aggressively cross-examining the witness and challenging every piece of evidence presented by the prosecution to fiercely defend his client.
- During the debate, the politician was notably combative, constantly interrupting his opponent and launching personal attacks instead of focusing on the key issues facing the country.
- Years of poverty had made him combative and suspicious of outsiders; he always prepared for the worst and instinctively distrusted anyone who offered unsolicited help.
- The company's combative negotiation tactics, characterized by threats and ultimatums, ultimately backfired when the union walked away from the table in total frustration.
Combative Synonyms
aggressive antagonistic argumentative bellicose belligerent contentious defiant quarrelsome truculentCombative Antonyms
agreeable amiable compliant conciliatory cooperative docile passive peaceful submissiveCombative Crossword Answers
8 Letters
MILITANT
9 Letters
AGONISTIC LITIGIOUS BATTLEFUL BELLICOSE
10 Letters
PUGNACIOUS
11 Letters
QUARRELSOME ADVERSARIAL AGONISTICAL CONTENTIOUS DISPUTATIVE
12 Letters
DISPUTATIOUS
15 Letters
CONFRONTATIONAL