What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
adversarial
Example
The debate was adversarial in nature, with each side trying to prove the other wrong. [adversarial: adjective]
Example
The adversarial system of justice is used in many countries around the world. [adversarial: adjective]
hostile
Example
The hostile takeover bid was met with resistance from the company's board of directors. [hostile: adjective]
Example
The protesters were met with a hostile police presence. [hostile: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hostile is more commonly used than adversarial in everyday language. Hostile is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while adversarial is more specific and often used in legal or political contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between adversarial and hostile?
Adversarial is typically associated with formal or legal language, while hostile can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
