animosity
Strong hostility or active dislike
Examples
In a meeting
“The animosity between the two departments is affecting cross-functional projects.”
Over coffee
“There's still animosity between them after that argument last year.”
Why this word
hatred
Animosity emphasizes active hostility and ill will, often with a history, while hatred can be more passive
dislike
Animosity conveys strong, bitter hostility, while dislike is milder negative feeling
anger
Animosity is deep-seated and enduring, while anger can be temporary or situational
Usage tip
Use to describe intense, often long-standing hostility. Stronger than 'dislike' but implies ongoing feelings rather than a single incident.
Etymology
Latin 'animositas' (boldness, spirit) from 'animus' (spirit, mind)
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Related words
apprehensive
Anxious or worried about something that may happen in the future
evoke
To bring a feeling, memory, or image into the mind
resent
To feel bitterness or indignation toward something or someone
placate
To make someone less angry or hostile through appeasement
demoralize
To cause someone to lose confidence or hope
endear
To cause to be loved or liked