animosity
Say it: an-ih-MOS-ih-tee /ˌænəˈmɑsəti/ · noun
What “animosity” means
Strong dislike or hostility towards someone.
More precisely: Strong hostility or active dislike.
Example: “There's open animosity between the two co-founders.”
When to use it
For obvious hostility between people or groups, beyond a passing annoyance. Useful in serious conversation or formal writing.
Similar words
hostility, enmity, antagonism
Where it comes from
From Latin animositas, "spirit, boldness."
Quick check
Two neighbours openly glare at each other and turn every shared task into a hostile argument. What exists between them?
rivalry or animosity?
Show the answer
animosity
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