Synonyms for

Hostilities

Verb / hɑ:ˈstɪlʌti:z / Another word for hostilities — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Hostilities means acts of war or conflict.

Synonyms & similar words

enmity belligerency antagonism aggression illwill hostility conflict warfare fighting combat strife opposition dispute contention friction animosity antagonism enmity aggression assault attack invasion offensive rivalry competition struggle

Synonyms by register

Formal

aggression conflict enmity opposition

Informal

fighting clashes trouble beef

Literary

strife discord feud

Antonyms

peace harmony friendship accord amity truce calm

Common collocations

  • begin hostilities
  • cease hostilities
  • renew hostilities
  • escalate hostilities
  • mutual hostilities
  • open hostilities
  • end hostilities

Word family

noun hostilities
verb hostilize
adjective hostile

Usage note

Hostilities refers to acts of open warfare or conflict. It is often used in a formal context, especially in international relations or military discussions.

Example sentences

  1. The hostilities between the two teams were intense on the field.
  2. The countries were engaged in hostilities for several years.
  3. The soldiers were trained for hostilities in different terrains.
  4. The hostilities between the two gangs led to several casualties.
  5. The negotiations failed to prevent hostilities from breaking out.

Quotes

  • Hostilities may cease, but distrust will remain, and the world has learned that wars are easier to start than to stop.
  • The only way to win World War III is to prevent it from ever happening. Hostilities between major powers must be avoided at all costs.
  • In times of war, the law falls silent. Under the most extreme conditions of hostility, the law disappears.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words