aggressive

word

/əˈɡɹɛsɪv/
uh-GRES-iv
/ɐɡɹˈɛsɪv/
uh-GRES-iv

Definition

Someone or something aggressive behaves in a forceful, hostile, or overly ready-to-fight way. It can also describe actions, plans, or strategies that are very strong, intense, and push hard for results.

Usage & Nuances

Often negative for behavior: an 'aggressive customer' sounds rude or threatening. But it can be neutral or positive in business and sports: 'aggressive marketing', 'an aggressive player'. Common collocations: 'aggressive behavior', 'aggressive tone', 'aggressive strategy'. Do not confuse with 'assertive', which means confident and direct without being hostile.

Example Sentences

The dog became aggressive when a stranger came near it.

basic

His aggressive tone made everyone uncomfortable.

basic

The company used an aggressive sales strategy this year.

basic

He’s not usually like that, but he got aggressive after a few drinks.

natural

We need to be more aggressive if we want to win this market.

natural

She sounded aggressive, so I tried to keep the conversation calm.

natural