animosity
What does "animosity" mean?
Animosity refers to a strong feeling of dislike, ill will, or active hostility toward someone or something. Imagine a cold, sharp edge in a relationship—it is more than just a passing annoyance; it is a deep-seated resentment that often lingers and colors how people interact with one another. This word is typically used in formal or literary contexts to describe long-standing conflicts or intense personal rivalries. It is often paired with verbs like "harbor" or "feel," and it is frequently used to describe tensions between groups, nations, or individuals who have a history of disagreement.
"animosity" in conversation
Discussing a workplace rivalry
I can really feel the animosity between them during every team meeting.
I can really feel the animosity between them during every team meeting.
It’s awkward. They haven't spoken a word to each other in months.
It’s awkward. They haven't spoken a word to each other in months.
Used to describe a palpable, tense atmosphere between two people.
Analyzing a historical conflict
The long-standing animosity between the two kingdoms eventually led to war.
The long-standing animosity between the two kingdoms eventually led to war.
So it wasn't just a sudden dispute, but years of built-up resentment?
So it wasn't just a sudden dispute, but years of built-up resentment?
Animosity often implies a history of negative feelings rather than a sudden argument.
"animosity" in a sentence
There is no animosity between us.
There is no animosity between us.
She harbored deep animosity toward her former business partner.
She harbored deep animosity toward her former business partner.
The treaty was signed in an attempt to put an end to years of bitter animosity.
The treaty was signed in an attempt to put an end to years of bitter animosity.
